COMPARATIVE CYTOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF GINGIVAL CREVICULAR CONTENT BEFORE AND AFTER AIR-ABRASIVE PREPARATION OF CERVICAL CARIOUS LESIONS

Unlike prophylactic polishing systems, which are well-studied regarding their interaction with the soft tissues of the periodontium, the impact of abrasive systems intended for cavity preparation on gingival tissues remains insufficiently explored. The aim of this study was to assess cytological changes in the content of the gingival sulcus under the influence of air-abrasive preparation of carious lesions located near the marginal periodontium. Materials and methods. In 10 individuals with clinically intact periodontium and cervical carious lesions at the gingival margin level, gingival sulcus content was sampled before and after air-abrasive preparation using aluminum oxide particles. Smears were prepared, stained by Romanowsky-Giemsa, and cytologically examined. Results. Before preparation, 7-10 cells were observed per field of view, mainly epithelial cells, occasionally showing degenerative signs. A small number of leukocytes without phagocytosis signs were detected, along with some degenerative or disintegrated neutrophils. Lymphocytes, eosinophils, and macrophages were absent. Coccoid microflora was present; the background included mucus traces, protein inclusions, and non-structured debris. The cytogram corresponded to the intact state of the periodontium. After preparation, the number of cells increased to 8-14. Epithelial cells showed no signs of keratinization; neutrophils were intact and moderate in number; single macrophages and erythrocytes were observed. Lymphocytes and eosinophils remained absent. Coccoid microflora was present in small amounts. The background contained mucus, desquamated material, protein droplets, and occasionally fine granular inclusions. The cytogram reflected a local tissue response to physical and mechanical impact. Conclusions. The cellular composition was characterized by the disappearance of keratinized elements, the appearance of intact epithelial cells and non-degraded neutrophils, isolated macrophages, and foreign granules. The cytological findings indicate a local tissue response to mechanical intervention.