Who's at risk for periodontal disease?

Up to 30% of the population may be genetically susceptible to developing severe periodontal disease, according to Kenneth Kornman, chief scientific officer, Medical Science Systems, San Antonio, Tex. These findings could result in the early identification and treatment of at-risk patients.

Periodontal diseases result from a bacterial infection of gums and bone surrounding the teeth. Once these bacteria take hold, the body releases a series of chemicals to fight them. This reaction, called an inflammatory response, can cause red and swollen gums, easy bleeding during brushing or flossing, bone loss, and many other symptoms. If too many of these chemicals are released, the inflammation can be severe, resulting in advanced loss of gum and bone structure and an increased risk of tooth loss.

Kornman, who led a team of periodontists and geneticists in the study, indicates that "This is the first time a genetic factor has been identified for a common disease, affecting such a large segment of the population. This information is also one of the first times a genetic test has the potential to be used as a preventive measure, identifying people before they even show signs of the disease and getting them into early interventive treatment ...."

Subjects were divided by the severity of their periodontal disease: mild to moderate, moderate, and severe. All were free of any other chronic disease, such as diabetes, hepatitis, or HIV, as well as cleared for pregnancy and anti-inflammatory drug use. After eliminating...