Current Theory of Disease Progression

And Intermittent Progression Theory (Current View). Intermittent disease progression theory suggests that periodontal disease is characterized by periods of disease activity and inactivity (remission) (Fig. 5-9).

1. Tissue destruction occurs sporadically, with short periods of tissue destruction alternate with periods of disease activity (no tissue destruction). The period of inactivity without the progression of the disease may last several months or for a longer period of time.

2. Tissue destruction develops at different rates around the mouth. Destruction is not happening in all the corners of the mouth at the same time. Instead, tissue destruction occurs only with certain web sites (tooth surface).

3. In most cases, untreated gingivitis not progress to periodontitis.

4. Various forms of periodontitis progress at different rates.

5. Susceptibility to periodontal disease varies greatly from person to person, and, apparently, determined by the host response to periodontal pathogens.

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