Comparison of Topographic changes of Palatal rugae pattern in Dentate and Edentulous patients.

Objective: To assess the topographic changes in palatal rugae in dentate and edentulous subjects and explore the topographic changes that has occurred due to aging and tooth loss. Study Design: A cross sectional observational study. Place and Duration: At Prosthodontic department of Lahore Medical and Dental College, Lahore from 5th January 2021 to 5th April 2021. Methodology: A total of 40 participants, (20 dentate; age ranged 20-30 years, 20 edentulous; age ranged 50-70 years) were selected using non probability purposive sampling. Demographic data was collected and intra oral examination was done. Alginate impressions were taken and maxillary casts were fabricated. The casts were minutely analyzed for number, direction, shape, length and unification of rugae. Sharp graphite pencil was used for marking and Modified Thomas and Kotze classification was used to examine rugae characteristics. Results: Topographic change was seen in rugae patterns and their distribution varies in both groups. The number of primary rugae was higher in dentate as compare to edentulous group (8.10 ± 0.788; 5.00 ± SD 1.75). The secondary rugae's count was also a bit higher in dentate group as compared to edentulous (2.00 ±SD 0.918, 0.65 ± SD 0.489). The commonest pattern seen in dentate group is more complexed i.e., wavy (2.80 ± 0.616), whereas in edentulous group the commonest pattern observed was straight rugae (2.78 ±SD 1.6). Dentate group had more frequent forward directed rugae (2.80 ± SD 1.196; 1.62 ±SD 0.885) as compared to edentulous group where perpendicular directed (2.50 ±SD 1.39) were more frequent. Significant difference was seen in convergent pattern of rugae of both groups (dentate .90 ±SD 1.02, edentulous 1.00 ±SD.001). Significant statistical difference was found in both groups with respect to number, direction, shape unification and lengths; p < 0.05. Conclusion: The aging process and tooth loss altered the topographical characteristics of palatal rugae and resulted in less number and complexity of characteristics in edentulous subjects as compared to dentate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]