Risk Factors for Periodontal Disease

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on risk factors for periodontal disease.

Risk Factor

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

Etiologic Factor

An attribute or exposure known to cause a disease.

Periodontal Equilibrium

The state of biological balance in the oral cavity in relation to periodontal health.

Homeostasis

The physiologic mechanism that maintains a state of balance in the internal environment of the body.

Diabetes Mellitus

A major systemic risk factor for periodontitis, characterized by insufficient insulin production or improper insulin utilization.

Causation

The relationship where one variable (A) leads to or causes another variable (B).

Association

A relationship or connection between two or more variables that does not imply causation.

Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs)

Biomolecules that, when increased in hyperglycemia, impair the normal function of collagen.

Osteoclasts

Cells that remove old bone in the process of bone remodeling.

Osteoblasts

Cells that create new bone and aid in its mineralization.

Plaque Biofilm

A structured community of microorganisms attached to a surface and encased in a protective matrix.

Tobacco Use

A significant modifiable risk factor for periodontal disease, including smoking and other tobacco products.

Metabolic Syndrome

A group of risk factors that increases the risk for heart disease and other health problems, including periodontal disease.

Inflammatory Cytokines

Signaling molecules released during inflammation that can perpetuate non-healing and tissue damage.

Xerostomia

Dry mouth condition often caused by systemic medications, leading to increased risk of dental issues.

Bidirectional Relationship

A connection where both conditions can influence each other, such as between periodontal disease and systemic diseases.

Neutrophil Dysfunction

A malfunctioning immune response where neutrophils are inadequate in fighting infections.

Hormonal Fluctuations

Changes in hormone levels during periods like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause that can affect periodontal health.