10 Risk Factors for Periodontal Disease

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and risk factors related to periodontal disease as outlined in the provided lecture notes.

What is a risk factor in relation to disease?

Any attribute, characteristic, or exposure associated with increased likelihood of developing disease or injury.

What is an etiologic factor?

Any attribute, characteristic, or exposure known to cause disease.

Name three periodontal pathogens associated with periodontal disease.

A. actinomycetemcomitans, Tannerella forsythia, Porphyromonas gingivalis.

What are some examples of systemic diseases that may act as risk factors for periodontal disease?

Diabetes is a notable example.

What are the two classifications of risk factors?

Modifiable factors and non-modifiable factors.

What are local factors in periodontal disease risk?

Factors like plaque, calculus, open contacts, and overhanging restorations.

List some acquired local risk factors for periodontal disease.

Calculus, overhanging restorations, poorly contoured restorations.

What is the most significant known risk factor for periodontitis?

Tobacco use.

What types of medications can contribute to gingival enlargement?

Calcium channel blockers, anticonvulsants, and immunosuppressants.

Define biologic equilibrium in the context of periodontal health.

A physiological mechanism that maintains a state of balance in the internal environment of the body.

What does periodontal health signify in terms of biologic equilibrium?

A state of balance between biofilm bacteria and the host within the oral cavity.

What must be contained to prevent disease progression in periodontal health?

Bacterial challenge at a level tolerated by the host.

Describe the relationship between individual risk factors and periodontal disease risk.

Risk factors may vary significantly; a risk factor may affect one individual more than another.

How can systemic risk factors be managed?

By collaborating with healthcare providers to manage conditions like uncontrolled diabetes.

What is the purpose of a periodontal risk assessment?

To identify risk factors that increase an individual's likelihood of developing periodontal disease.

What factors are considered in clinical risk assessment for periodontal disease?

Demographic data, medical history, and dental history.

List some examples of demographic data used in risk assessment.

Age, duration of exposure to contributing risk factors, and socioeconomic status.

How does tobacco use factor into clinical risk assessment for periodontal disease?

It is a recognized risk factor that can significantly increase susceptibility to disease.

What is the goal of risk assessment in periodontal treatment planning?

To classify patients into high- or low-risk groups.

Why is frequent professional care important for individuals with certain risk factors?

To compensate for poor compliance with self-care necessary for controlling plaque biofilm.