The effect of periodontal treatment on periodontal bacteria on the oral mucous membranes
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of conventional periodontal treatment on the prevalence of A. actinomycetemcomitans, P. gingivalis, and P. intermedia on oral mucous membranes in adult patients with periodontitis.
Fifteen patients with moderate to severe periodontal disease participated in this study. Moderate to severe periodontal disease was diagnosed when the following conditions were present in at least one site in each quadrant: (1) probing depth greater than or equal to 5 mm, (2) interproximal probing attachment loss greater than or equal to 3 mm, (3) bleeding on probing and (4) radiographic evidence of alveolar bone loss. The four deepest sites with bleeding on probing were selected for clinical and microbiological evaluation. Plaque scores, gingival redness and swelling suppuration, probing depth, bleeding on probing and loss of attachment were assessed. A baseline was established, scaling and root planing was conducted, and six weeks later a second evaluation was done. The modified Widman flap surgery was done in areas with probing depths > 6 mm. A third clinical and microbiological evaluation was done three months after surgery.
The results showed all clinical parameters except gingival redness were changed significantly for the better. The subgingival prevalence of the three putative periodontal pathogens had decreased significantly. No reduction in the prevalence of the bacteria was seen on the oral mucous membranes.
Because of the continued prevalence of the examined periodontal pathogens on the oral mucous membranes, this site may serve as a source for reinfection of the periodontium after treatment. [D.S.S.]
Danser, M., M. Timmerman, A. van Winkelhoff, and U. van derVelden, J Periodont, 67:478, 1996