Comparison of Periodontium Reaction to Fixation of Mandibular Fractures with and Without Erich Arch Bars

Background: There are two general types of fixation methods used in mandibular fractures and osteotomy: closed fixation method with Erich arch bars and the open fixation method (without Erich arch bars). Periodontium inflammation, following mandibular fixation methods, is a complication of the healing period.Objectives: The current study aimed at evaluating and comparing periodontium reaction to fixation of mandibular fractures with and without Erich arch bars.Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out on 48 patients with mandibular fractures. Twenty-four patients were treated with close method and Erich arch bars and 24 patients with open method and without Erich arch bars. Periodontium clinical indices, including plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP), and probing pocket depth (PPD), were measured immediately before the surgery and four, six, and eight weeks later.Results: After four, six, and eight weeks, subjects with arch bars had significantly greater PI, GI, and PPD (P value 0.001).Conclusions: According to the results, the use of Erich arch barsmore decreased periodontium status compared to the other group.