Life Under the Gum Line

Tuesday Session, 10:15–11:45 a.m.

Program Track: Periodontal-Systemic Relationships

Moderator: Thiago Morelli

Speaker: Richard J. Lamont

This course will cover microbial colonization of the subgingival compartment, and the development of polymicrobial communities. Within microbial communities, multi-level physical and chemical communication systems among constituent organisms can lead to polymicrobial synergy and elevate the pathogenic potential of the entire community. Functional specialization of community participants has given rise to several newly appreciated categories that extend traditional ideas of commensalism and pathogenicity. The integration of these concepts into a model of periodontal disease pathogenesis, the Polymicrobial Synergy and Dysbiosis model, will be discussed.

Educational Objectives:

• Review the parameters that define the composition of the subgingival microbiota.

• Recognize the differing pathogenic potential of organisms and communities.

• Appreciate the interface between the host inflammatory response and microbial challenge.

• Comprehend the basis of the Polymicrobial Synergy and Dysbiosis model of periodontal disease pathogenesis.