Risk factors for periodontal diseases and Perio-systemic links

Question 1

what is a risk factor?

Answer 1

something that increases a person’s chances of developing a disease

Question 2

what are the local risk factors for periodontal disease?

Answer 2

acquired: plaque, calculus, poor restorations, crowns, occlusal trauma

anatomical: malpositioned teeth, enamel pears, root grooves

Question 3

what is the main general risk factor for periodontal diseases?

Answer 3

smoking (vaping included).

decreases healing capacity - reduced blood flow

Question 4

how does sub-optimally controlled diabetes mellitus affect periodontal diseases

Answer 4

• hyperglycemia results in altered balanced of osteoprotegerin (OPG) ratio and contributes to alveolar bone destruction

Question 5

how does obesity and nutrition affect periodontal health?

Answer 5

severe vit. c deficiency - scorbutic gingivitis (scurvy)
lack of nutrients - decreased immune function
obesity - proinflammatory effect (causes inflammation of gums)

Question 6

how do drugs and meds affect periodontal health?

Answer 6

anticonvulsant (prevents seizures)
immunosuppressants (transplant patients) - allows inflammation due to bacteria
calcium channel blockers

All lead to enlargement of gingiva and swelling
Swelling + hyperplasia

Question 7

periodontitis is a risk factor for what other diseases?

Answer 7

Cardiovascular disease
Diabetes
Rheumatoid arthritis
Respiratory disease