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Mycoplasma in relation to gingivitis and periodontitis
H S Kwek1, M Wilson, H N Newman
1Institute of Dental Surgery, Eastman Dental Hospital, London, UK.
Journal of Clinical Periodontology
|February 1, 1990
Summary
Mycoplasma (a type of bacteria) were found in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of patients with gingivitis and periodontitis. Higher proportions of mycoplasma were observed in periodontitis patients, suggesting a link to chronic inflammatory periodontal disease (CIPD).
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Periodontology
- Oral Health
Background:
- Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) harbors a complex microbial community.
- The role of specific microorganisms like mycoplasma in periodontal diseases requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enumerate mycoplasma in the GCF of patients with gingivitis and periodontitis.
- To determine the association between mycoplasma proportions and periodontal disease severity.
Main Methods:
- GCF samples were collected from the maxillary right first permanent molar of patients.
- Samples were cultured anaerobically on selective and non-selective media to quantify mycoplasma and total anaerobic bacteria.
- Disease activity was assessed using bleeding on probing (PBI) and pocket depth measurements.
Main Results:
- Mycoplasmas were detected in the GCF of both gingivitis and periodontitis patients.
- A significantly higher proportion of mycoplasma was found in the GCF of periodontitis patients compared to gingivitis patients.
- Mycoplasma proportions correlated with probable pocket depth but not with bleeding on probing (PBI).
Conclusions:
- Mycoplasmas are present in the GCF of patients with periodontal diseases.
- The increased proportion of mycoplasma in periodontitis suggests they are associated with chronic inflammatory periodontal disease (CIPD).
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific role of mycoplasma in the pathogenesis of CIPD.