Virus and Periodontal Area

Abstract

Viral infections usually develop in 2 phases: primary infection and latent asymptomatic phase. Periods of sporadic activation between the two phases lead to viral replication, weakening of periodontal immune defenses and transmission of periodontal diseases. So-called periodontitis can be chronic, aggressive, progressive and affect probing pocket depth and clinical attachment. It all depends on the virus, the local environment and its manifestations in the oral cavity. Objectives: Primary objective: To review how virus can be part of periodontal etiopathogenesis. Secondary objectives: To know if it exists scientific evidence between virus and the types of virus in the periodontal areas and to approach on the relation between the oral cavity and Covid 19. Material and Methods: This research study is based on a literature review of published articles from scientific and biomedical databases. A meticulous screening was performed to evaluate the most relevant publications and answer the objectives. Results: 8 articles were selected. HSV-1 predominant in deep pockets and in moderate disease stage. EBV more present in localized aggressive periodontitis than in generalized one. Generally, the studied viruses are present in moderate-advances lesions. Conclusion: Generally, the immune system defenses are weaken, the virus hinders the antibacterial immune process and it leads to the growth of the periodontopathic microbiota. It’s an interactive procedure between virus and bacteria in the building process of periodontal diseases. Also, virus don’t work alone but usually in cooperation with other specific bacteria as periodontopathic agents in periodontal tissues destruction.