The condition of periodontal tissues and selected microorganisms presence around implants and natural teeth

Abstract Introduction Periodontitis is a disease of the tissues surrounding the tooth, leading to tooth loss. Missing teeth are often restored with fixed prostheses supported by implants. The aim of this study was to analyze subgingival microbiota in periodontal pockets and around implants, as well as to assess the correlation of periodontal parameters and risk factors for periodontitis with the presence of selected bacteria. Materials and Methods The study included 33 patients of both sexes, aged 39 to 79 years, having their own dentition and intraosseous implants with healthy periodontium or reversible gingivitis. The patients underwent periodontal examination and bacteriological analysis with the use of a PET RT-PCR kit (MIP Pharma, Germany). Results Less plaque was observed on implant surfaces than around natural teeth (28.7% vs. 39.8%). On the other hand, significantly deeper pockets (2.9 vs. 2.3 mm), and a slightly higher gingival bleeding index (27.9 vs. 22.6%) were noted around implants. Conclusions There were no significant differences in the overall presence and number of studied pathogens between the natural teeth and implants. In the case of natural teeth, the presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis , Treponema denticola , Tannerella forsythia and Prevotella intermedia showed correlation with clinical status: the amount of plaque (Td, Tf), bleeding (Td, Tf, Pi) and probing depth (Pg, Td, Tf, Pi). Such relationships were not observed in the case of implants. Bacteria from periodontal pockets also demonstrated more correlation with the general condition compared to bacteria residing in tissues around implants.