Reis AA et al.

 

This cross-sectional case-control study aimed to evaluate the microbial colonization at different stages of dentition in 100 individuals aged 0 to 18 years coming from families with a history of periodontitis compared to offspring of periodontally healthy parents.

The offspring of the 'Perio' group and the offspring of the 'Healthy' group, matched for gender and age, were included, and divided according to the dentition phase: pre-dentate, primary, mixed, and permanent. The patients were clinically assessed, their saliva was collected, and specific DNA regions were sequenced.

 

Children of the Perio group presented a microbial diversity different from that of the Healthy group in mixed and permanent dentitions. The more intense shift in the community occurred between primary and mixed dentition in the Perio group, while the transition between mixed and permanent dentition was the period with greater changes in the microbiome for the Healthy group. Furthermore, a pathogen-rich environment was observed in the Perio group.

 

The authors underscore the influence of parental periodontal status on the early development of their children's oral microbiome. Given the relationship between the oral microbiome, oral health, and overall health, the authors shed new light on the potential for influencing the oral microbiome during pregnancy and early childhood.

 

Abstract of the article can be read here.