II. Pathophysiology
III. Risk Factors
- Dental Caries
- Poor Dental Hygiene
- Older patients with comorbid illness
- Tobacco Abuse
- Immunosuppression
- Exposure to Saliva of a patient with Periodontal Disease
IV. Types
-
Gingivitis
- Inflammation of gums (swelling, erythema) that bleed more easily
- Periodontal Disease typically starts with Gingivitis
-
Periodontitis
- Inflammation spreads to the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone
-
Pericoronitis
- Localized infection within Gingival flap as tooth erupts (e.g. impacted wisdom tooth)
V. Complications
- Fever of Unknown Origin
- Bacterial Endocarditis
- May be related to pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and other vascular disease
VI. Prevention
- See Gingivitis