Refractory Periodontitis

Periodontitis is advanced gum disease. Gum disease begins with the warning signs of gingivitis, or puffy, inflamed and bleeding gums. Gum disease can be prevented, and gingivitis can even be reversed, by regular brushing, flossing and dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar. Periodontists usually can effectively treat advanced gum disease, but sometimes it resists treatment. This is called refractory periodontitis.

Periodontitis

In periodontitis, connective tissue and bones that support the teeth are damaged by the gum inflammation and the toxins produced by disease.

Refractory Periodontitis

Refractory periodontitis occurs when proper oral hygiene and periodontal treatment do not stop the progressive destruction.

Causes

Many factors are associated with this lack of response to treatment. These include the severity of the disease before the patient seeks therapy, strains of bacteria involved and which types of teeth are affected.

Smoking

Smoking is a critical predictor of potential refractory periodontitis. Research from the University of Minnesota discovered that in a study of 31 people with this disorder, 28 of them, or 90 percent, were cigarette smokers. The study had already factored in quality of oral hygiene and access to dental care (see Resources below).

Antibiotic Therapy

Many people with refractory periodontitis have a history of antibiotic therapy which has made the bacteria resistant. Research from the University of Texas indicates that localized and systemic antibiotic treatment, specifically with tetracycline, may have the most significant benefits (see Resources below).

Resources

• University of Texas research on refractory periodontitis
• Cigarette smoking effects on refractory periodontitis

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