Evaluation of ALP and CRP in Chronic Periodontitis and Healthy Controls Following Scaling and Root Planing

Abstract

Chronic periodontitis is a common inflammatory condition that leads to the destruction of supporting tooth structures. Biomarkers such as alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and C-reactive protein (CRP) have been linked with inflammation and tissue damage, making them potential indicators of periodontal disease activity. Aim: To evaluate and compare serum levels of ALP and CRP in patients with chronic periodontitis and healthy individuals, and to assess changes following scaling and root planning (SRP). Methods: This study included 86 participants—43 with chronic periodontitis and 43 healthy controls—recruited from the Department of Periodontology, NIMS Dental College, Jaipur. Periodontitis patients underwent SRP, and serum samples were collected at three intervals: before treatment, 1 week after, and 1 month after SRP. Serum ALP and CRP levels were measured using ERBA diagnostic kits with a semi-auto analyzer (ERBA CHEM-7). Data were analyzed for intergroup and intragroup differences using appropriate statistical tests. Results: Baseline serum ALP and CRP levels were significantly higher in chronic periodontitis patients than in healthy controls (ALP: 180.62 ± 33.86 vs 80.81 ± 17.61 U/L; CRP: 15.97 ± 3.72 vs 2.08 ± 0.98 U/L; p < 0.01). After SRP, both markers showed a marked and progressive reduction—at 1 week (ALP: 153.28 ± 24.89 U/L; CRP: 10.42 ± 2.83 U/L) and at 1 month (ALP: 110.24 ± 12.25 U/L; CRP: 5.99 ± 1.56 U/L)—with statistically significant improvements (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Serum ALP and CRP levels are elevated in chronic periodontitis, reflecting active inflammation. Their significant reduction after scaling and root planning indicates periodontal healing and highlights their potential utility as biomarkers for disease monitoring and therapeutic response.