Staphylococcus in Periodontal Disease

The human mouth naturally has several strains of bacteria present. Good oral hygiene keeps these bacteria under control. The saliva contains enzymes that kill bacteria and keeps them under control. However, in the absence of these, bacteria can take hold in the gums, resulting in periodontal disease.

Staphylococcus Bacteria

• Staphylococcus bacteria are gram-positive round shaped bacteria that grow in colonies. The most common staphylococcus bacterium to cause infection in humans is Staphylococcus aureus. Staphylococcus commonly causes infections in the skin, including abscesses, boils and carbuncles. Staphylococcus bacteria are also responsible for endocarditis, toxic shock syndrome, septic arthritis and some bone infections.

Oral Bacteria

• The mouth is home to several strains of bacteria, including Treponema denticola, Streptococcus salivarious and Actinomyces. Staphylococcus is not one of the bacteria that are normally part of the flora of the mouth region. However, it is not uncommon to find staphylococcus in and around the eyes, nose and mouth, especially in children. In addition, researchers have found that Staphylococcus is present in the mouths of about 10 percent of the population.

Periodontal Disease

• Periodontal disease occurs in two stages. The first is gingivitis. This is a condition where plaque, a soft, sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth. The plaque causes the gums to become red and inflamed. This condition can be reversed if good hygiene practices are instituted. However, if left untreated, the plaque can turn to tartar, and the infection can spread below the gum line. This results in the second stage of disease, known as periodontitis. This infection can be serious, causing breakdown of the tissues where the teeth connect with the bone, damage to the bone and loss of teeth.

Staphlococcus Infections

• Staphylococcus bacteria typically cause infections of the skin. However, many strains of the bacteria are able to produce toxins, and it is the toxins that cause disorders and disease. When the bacteria or the toxins enter the bloodstream, diseases like toxic shock syndrome can result. Staphylococcus infections can also be dangerous because there are several antibiotic-resistant strains, including MRSA, which can cause serious infections.

Oral Infections

• Staphylococcus has been isolated from deep infections, especially abscesses, of the teeth. In healthy individuals who carry the Staphylococcus bacteria, it can remain without causing harm. However, when infection starts, this bacteria can join in the party, therefore irritating the gums more. Normal occurrences of gingivitis and periodontal disease, however, generally do not involve Staphylococcus bacteria.