Porphyromonas gingivalis in oral geriatrics and its association with periodontal health and comorbidities

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the periodontal status in geriatric subjects and found a significant association between P. gingivalis infection and clinical periodontal parameters as well as medical illness. METHODS: Dental pockets’ samples were obtained from 32 geriatrics who were chosen randomly from health clinics. Clinical periodontal parameters and medical illnesses were recorded during the oral examination. Samples were subjected to DNA extraction and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. The identification of P. gingivalis by PCR assay was determined based on the P. gingivalis 16S rRNA subunit amplification. RESULTS: Approximately 90.63% of geriatric patients had periodontitis. The presence of P. gingivalis was significantly associated with periodontal depth and clinical attachment loss (P = 0.037). The extension of periodontal disease, smoking status, diabetes status and mild cognitive impairment are highly associated with P. gingivalis. CONCLUSION: Due to asymptomatic periodontal disease in the early phase, early screening of bacterial detection and oral public health awareness is crucial, especially among elderly groups who are smokers and diabetics. Adequate oral care and comorbidities control among geriatrics are indeed crucial to prevent the periodontal disease progression.