Assessment of Skeletal Maturity Biomarkers in the Gingival Crevicular Fluid of Orthodontic Patients
Study on Growth Prediction Using Fluid Between Teeth and Gums
Rishma Shah
Primary Investigator
Brief description of study
The purpose of this study is to find a non-invasive technique of measuring growth hormone-related factors to provide a prediction of future growth of a patient. The study will investigate factors in the fluid residing between the teeth and gums, and correlate this with age, height, weight, and indicators on radiographs.
Detailed description of study
Specific Aim 1. Correlate GCF biomarker levels with CVMS and stature-for-age and weight-for-age percentiles in non-CFA patients.
Specific Aim 2. Correlate GCF biomarker levels with CVMS and stature-for-age and weight-for-age percentiles in patients with CL/P.
Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) will be collected from each consented subject using PerioPaper strips, a standard non-invasive method for sampling GCF. A lateral cephalometric radiograph is taken as a routine procedure for each subject who is about to embark on orthodontic treatment or during orthodontic treatment to determine treatment outcomes. Height and weight will be recorded on the same day that the GCF collection and lateral cephalogram are obtained.
Eligibility of study
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:
- Conditions: Healthy
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Age: 7 years - 20 years
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Gender: All
Inclusion criteria:
• Children age 7 to 20 years, with a parent or legal guardian who can provide signed consent
• Good general health
Exclusion criteria:
• Significant medical history influencing bone metabolism or growth hormone activity
• Heart conditions requiring antibiotic cover
• Pregnant
• Tobacco
• Taking medications known to affect the periodontium or systemic inflammatory responses, including corticosteroids
• Periodontal disease
• Craniofacial syndrome
• Conditions affecting the cervical vertebrae
This study investigates how factors in the fluid between teeth and gums, called gingival crevicular fluid, relate to growth in orthodontic patients. The purpose is to find a non-invasive way to predict future growth by measuring growth hormone-related factors and comparing them with age, height, weight, and X-ray indicators.
Participants will have gingival crevicular fluid collected using a standard method involving PerioPaper strips, which is not invasive. Additionally, a routine X-ray of the side of the head, called a lateral cephalometric radiograph, will be taken. Height and weight will be recorded on the same day as fluid collection and X-ray.
- Who can participate: Children aged 7 to 20 years in good general health, with a parent or guardian able to consent, may participate. Those with medical histories affecting bone growth or on certain medications are excluded.
- Study details: Participants will have fluid collected from their gums using PerioPaper strips, a non-invasive technique. They will also undergo a routine orthodontic X-ray and have their height and weight recorded.
