What's Happening?
A longitudinal study conducted at Al-Hadi University’s College of Dentistry has identified salivary and serum chromogranin A (CgA) as potential biomarkers for acute stress during early fixed orthodontic
treatment. The study involved 25 participants aged 15 to 25 years undergoing non-extraction fixed orthodontic treatment. Researchers measured CgA levels at various intervals, finding that both salivary and serum CgA levels rose from baseline to 24 hours post-treatment and then declined. The study aimed to assess the stress response associated with orthodontic procedures, using CgA as an indicator. Participants reported mild to moderate discomfort, and pain intensity was measured using a Visual Analogue Scale.
Why It's Important?
The identification of CgA as a biomarker for stress in orthodontic treatment is significant as it provides a measurable indicator of physiological stress responses in patients. This can help orthodontists better understand and manage patient discomfort and stress during treatment. By monitoring CgA levels, practitioners can potentially tailor treatment plans to minimize stress and improve patient experiences. The study also contributes to the broader field of stress research, offering insights into how medical procedures can impact physiological stress markers. This knowledge could lead to improved patient care and stress management strategies in dental and other medical fields.
What's Next?
Further research is needed to explore the relationship between CgA levels and other stress-related factors in orthodontic treatment. Future studies could investigate the long-term effects of orthodontic stress on CgA levels and overall patient health. Additionally, expanding the research to include a larger and more diverse participant pool could provide more comprehensive data. The development of interventions to reduce stress during orthodontic treatment, based on CgA monitoring, could enhance patient care. As the study suggests, understanding individual stress responses could lead to more personalized treatment approaches in dentistry and other healthcare areas.
