Effects of Aging on Periodontal Pathogenesis and Wound Repair: A Scoping Review

Aging influences susceptibility to periodontitis and modifies wound repair, which favors the development of age-associated periodontal diseases. However, these effects are not well known. Our scoping review aimed to analyze the existing literature on this topic.

PRISMA guidelines for Scoping Reviews were followed. An exhaustive literature search was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, LILACS, and Dentistry and Oral Sciences Sources. Pairs of reviewers screened study abstracts and full texts, and two reviewers extracted data using a standardized extraction form. Kappa indices were calculated for reviewer calibration. Data analysis was done using RStudio.

4538 records were identified, and 43 were included. Studies reported reduced collagen synthesis during aging, narrowing of the periodontal ligament, widening of cementum, and increased bone resorption. Aged tissues exhibit increases in genes and proteins involved in microbial sensing, tissue remodeling, inflammation, and senescence, and reductions in structural proteins, bone formation, metabolic regulation. Wound healing studies describe impaired connective tissue and bone responses, while preclinical studies indicate drugs and nutritional agents may reduce periodontal tissue destruction, showing potential for new therapeutic avenues.

Our study highlights significant changes in periodontal disease susceptibility along with impaired wound healing during aging, with implications for future research and clinical management.