[Characterization of Mycoplasma salivarium in periodontal diseases]

Research for oral mycoplasms has been conducted on individuals affected with periodontal disease. In 66 out of 100 samplings taken from lesions distinctive or gingivitis, it has been possible to identify Mycoplasma salivarium, by means of specific culture medium and serological reactions. A good correlation has been established between the oral hygiene index and the presence of Mycoplasma salivarium. 80% of the samplings taken from the periodontal pockets of patients affected with chronic periodontitis have revealed the presence of Mycoplasma salivarium. There is a close connection between the stage of the infection and the depth of the pockets. The deeper periodontal tissues of 63 out of the same 100 subjects bear evidence of Mycoplasma salivarium, which, besides the processes already described in relation to bacteria, would come to imply a direct action of mycoplasms on the cell metabolism.