Diagnostic tests for periodontal diseases.

Area of Science:

• Periodontology
• Diagnostic test development

Background:

• Growing interest in detecting factors associated with active periodontal disease.
• Recent advancements in diagnostic technologies are emerging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent developments in diagnostic tests for periodontal disease.
• To highlight the need for clinical validation of new diagnostic methods.

Main Methods:

• Review of advancements in subtraction radiography and periodontal probes.
• Evaluation of new rapid tests for periodontal pathogens.
• Assessment of host-derived enzyme detection in gingival crevicular fluid.

Main Results:

• Refinements in subtraction radiographic techniques.
• Development of computer-linked, controlled-force periodontal probes.
• Rapid progress in developing tests for pathogens and host enzymes.

Conclusions:

• Continued rapid development of diagnostic tests for active periodontal disease.
• Emphasis on detecting periodontal pathogens and host enzymes.
• Urgent need for longitudinal studies to establish clinical utility.