PREVALENCE, SEVERITY, AND NATURAL HISTORY OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Throughout the 20th century, an understanding of the role of causative bacteria and the susceptible host in the initiation and progression of periodontal disease(s) has emerged from the research efforts of scientists and clinicians worldwide. The discovery of antibiotics, beginning with sulfanilamide, penicillin, and streptomycin, led to additional strategies for managing periodontal disease. With the discovery of the mechanism of action of aspirin, scientists began to develop new strategies for treating diseases that focused on controlling inflammation. Thus, host-modulating therapies emerged for the management of periodontal disease through the control of inflammation.