Periodontics of tomorrow.
In the early post-World War II years, there was no unified paradigm to explain the etiology of periodontal diseases. Subsequent studies established that the diseases were caused by bacteria colonizing the gingiva and subgingiva, leading to rational approaches to treatment and prevention. Research to identify the principal and bacterial species involved and clarify host immune responses continues, aided by new cell and molecular techniques. Epidemiologic surveys show improved oral health in adults but indicate problems among older Americans. Future research should expand studies of periodontal tissue regeneration, resolve questions of disease activity and progression and include oral health promotion programs targeted to adults.
Löe
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National Institute of Dental Research, Bethesda, Maryland.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D018407:Bacterial Physiological Phenomena; D005544:Forecasting; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009909:Oral Health; D010510:Periodontal Diseases / Q000382:microbiology / Q000628:therapy; D010517:Periodontics / Q000639:trends*; D014481:United States