Evaluation of the periodontal status of kidney transplantation patients and measurement of their level of knowledge about oral and dental health

Aim: The objective of this study was to examine the impact of immunosuppressant medications utilized by renal transplantation patients on periodontal health, assess the oral hygiene practices of these patients, and evaluate their awareness and understanding of oral and dental health. Material and Method: The present study included 120 participants who had undergone kidney transplantation. The following variables were evaluated: demographic data, systemic status, dental habits, knowledge level, and clinical parameters (periodontal health status, plaque index, gingival index, probing depth, clinical attachment level, and gingival growth index). The data obtained were recorded and subjected to statistical evaluation. Results: The mean periodontal parameters were found to be lower in participants who had undergone a dental examination prior to transplantation (p <0.05). The mean gingival index score, probing depth, clinical attachment level, prevalence of "clinically significant" gingival growth, and mean gingival growth percentage score were found to be significantly higher in participants using calcium channel blockers in conjunction with the immunosuppressive regimen (p <0.05). The mean gingival growth percentage score was found to be higher in participants who used cyclosporine than in those who used tacrolimus (p <0.05). The mean gingival index and plaque index values were found to be higher in the patient group with significant gingival growth (p <0.05). Conclusion: The concurrent administration of calcium channel blockers and immunosuppressive regimens has been demonstrated to exacerbate the severity of gingival overgrowth. Furthermore, given the detrimental impact of poor oral hygiene on gingival overgrowth, it is imperative that transplant recipients undergo regular dental examinations both before and after transplantation. Key Words: Kidney transplantation, Immunosuppressive drugs, Oral health, Periodontal disease, Knowledge level