title: Position paper: periodontal diseases of children and adolescents.
abstract: Children and adolescents are subject to several periodontal diseases. Although there is a much lower prevalence of destructive periodontal diseases in children than in adults, children can develop severe forms of periodontitis. In some cases, this destructive disease is a manifestation of a known underlying systemic disease. In other young patients, the underlying cause for increased susceptibility and early onset of disease is unknown. These diseases are often familial, suggesting a genetic predisposition for aggressive disease. Current modalities for managing periodontal diseases of children and adolescents may include antibiotic therapy in combination with non-surgical and/or surgical therapy. Since early diagnosis ensures the greatest chance for successful treatment, it is important that children receive a periodontal examination as part of their routine dental visits.
authors.forename: Joseph V
authors.initials: JV
authors.lastname: Califano
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D010520:Aggressive Periodontitis / Q000145:classification / Q000209:etiology; D002648:Child; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003773:Dental Plaque / Q000150:complications; D005882:Gingival Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D005892:Gingivitis, Necrotizing Ulcerative / Q000145:classification / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D009336:Necrosis; D010510:Periodontal Diseases / Q000145:classification* / Q000209:etiology; D010518:Periodontitis / Q000145:classification / Q000209:etiology