Bacteria and Viruses in Periodontics- A review

Abstract

Periodontal diseases are infectious diseases, but the specific mechanism by which the tooth-supportive tissue is destroyed is not clearly understood. Periodontitis is a multifactorial, chronic disease followed by destruction of encompassing structures of teeth and when left untreated leads to loss of alveolar bone and exfoliation of the involved teeth. The main etiological factor for development of periodontitis is oral biofilm containing anaerobic microorganisms. Microbiological culture studies have identified more than 1200 bacterial species in the oral cavity. Although the role of bacterial plaque in general seems to be evident, on the contrary the role of virus has been largely unexplored. Viral infection impairs periodontal defenses, thereby permitting subgingival overgrowth of periodontopathic bacteria. The role of viruses is significant, as they may induce abnormalities in the adhesion, chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and bactericidal activities of polymorphonuclear leukocytes. When associated with one another, viruses and bacteria have stronger periodonto-pathogenic potential than individually. Therefore, it is significant to know all etiologic factors and such an insight would lead to the better treatment of the disease.