Localized Aggressive Periodontitis
Localized Aggressive Periodontitis (LAP) is a disease that is previously referred to as Localized Juvenile Periodontitis. It has an onset around the time of puberty. Some characteristics of this type of periodontal disease are rapid tissue destruction around permanent first molars and/or incisors. It involves no more than two teeth other than the first molars and incisors. This rapid loss in supporting structures can cause a high risk for tooth loss and poor response to periodontal therapy.
Distinguishing factors for LAP are the lack of tissue inflammation in relation to the amount of destruction. Also there are minimal amounts of plaque that seem inconsistent with the amount of destruction. There tends to be little or no amounts of plaque and/or calculus. The type of destruction characteristic of LAP is vertical bone loss around permanent first molars and/or incisors. Fortunately, LAP is less common than chronic periodontitis.
The etiology of this disease is systemic, but there are no obvious signs or symptoms of systemic disease. There can be a lack of clinical signs because affected tissue may have a normal clinical appearance. Only upon periodontal assessment and radiographic assessment can LAP be observable.
The pathogen frequently associated with LAP is Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans.
The American Academy of Periodontology classifies this disease as AAP III A (localized).
Localized Aggressive Periodontitis is more prevalent in females of physiological maturity than in males of the same ages. It is associated with abnormal neutrophil function.
Patient education for Localized Aggressive Periodontitis is similar to those with chronic periodontitis. A physician consultation is indicated for those children and young adults who exhibit severe periodontitits. Individualized homecare instructions and reinforcement can help maintain this disease. A referral to a Periodontist should be given. The goal for a patient with LAP should be the prevention of further loss of attachment and supporting structures.
Therapy is usually aimed at reducing the pathogenic microflora through scaling and root planing with the administration of antibiotics. However, surgery may be indicated.
Maintenance recommendations for LAP with the best outcomes are achieved when there is good compliance with the patient with self-care and recall appointments at appropriate intervals.
Journal article:
Minimally Invasive Flap Surgery and Enamel Matrix Derivative in the Treatment of Localized Aggressive Periodontitis: Case Report, The International Journal of Periodontics & Restorative Dentistry
Additional resources:
Foundations of Periodontics for the Dental Hygienist 2nd edition, Jill S. Nield-Gehrig & Donald E. Willmann
http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/Research/ResearchResults/InterviewsOHR/Periodontitis.htm
Distinguishing factors for LAP are the lack of tissue inflammation in relation to the amount of destruction. Also there are minimal amounts of plaque that seem inconsistent with the amount of destruction. There tends to be little or no amounts of plaque and/or calculus. The type of destruction characteristic of LAP is vertical bone loss around permanent first molars and/or incisors. Fortunately, LAP is less common than chronic periodontitis.
The etiology of this disease is systemic, but there are no obvious signs or symptoms of systemic disease. There can be a lack of clinical signs because affected tissue may have a normal clinical appearance. Only upon periodontal assessment and radiographic assessment can LAP be observable.
The pathogen frequently associated with LAP is Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans.
The American Academy of Periodontology classifies this disease as AAP III A (localized).
Localized Aggressive Periodontitis is more prevalent in females of physiological maturity than in males of the same ages. It is associated with abnormal neutrophil function.
Patient education for Localized Aggressive Periodontitis is similar to those with chronic periodontitis. A physician consultation is indicated for those children and young adults who exhibit severe periodontitits. Individualized homecare instructions and reinforcement can help maintain this disease. A referral to a Periodontist should be given. The goal for a patient with LAP should be the prevention of further loss of attachment and supporting structures.
Therapy is usually aimed at reducing the pathogenic microflora through scaling and root planing with the administration of antibiotics. However, surgery may be indicated.
Maintenance recommendations for LAP with the best outcomes are achieved when there is good compliance with the patient with self-care and recall appointments at appropriate intervals.
Journal article:
Minimally Invasive Flap Surgery and Enamel Matrix Derivative in the Treatment of Localized Aggressive Periodontitis: Case Report, The International Journal of Periodontics & Restorative Dentistry
Additional resources:
Foundations of Periodontics for the Dental Hygienist 2nd edition, Jill S. Nield-Gehrig & Donald E. Willmann
http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/Research/ResearchResults/InterviewsOHR/Periodontitis.htm