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Genetic Testing for Periodontal Disease

Researchers have discovered a gene that regulates the production of Interleukin 1A and Interleukin 1B, signaling proteins that stimulate cells that destroy bone and soft tissue in an attempt to fight infection. It is now possible though a DNA test to genetically identify persons who possess large quantities of Interleukin 1B, a predisposition that can lead to periodontal disease.

  1. Symptoms of periodontal disease

    • Persons who have periodontal disease have a range of symptoms, including red, swollen or tender gums that bleed, receding gums, teeth that are loose or separating, a change in the alignment of the jaw or bite of the teeth, pus between the teeth and gums, and dentures that no longer fit.

    Periodontal disease DNA test

    • A periodontal disease test identifies variations in Interleukin 1B. It can identify individuals with a three to seven percent increased risk of suffering periodontal disease and loss of teeth. Each person inherits from her parents a genetic makeup of either a negative or positive susceptibility for extra interleukin 1B. If he receives a negative from each parent or a positive from one parent and a negative from the other, he will not produce extra interleukin 1B. But if he receives a positive from both parents, he will likely produce extra interleukin B and be susceptible to periodontal disease.

    Who should take the test

    • Persons in their 30s and 40s who ordinarily experience symptoms of periodontal disease for the first time should consider the test. If you are experiencing early symptoms of periodontal disease or are considering implants or other orthodontic procedures, a test for genetic susceptibility to periodontal disease might be in order. A positive test can help you take preventative measure to prevent the onset or spreading of the disease.

    The process

    • Older versions of the test required a sample of a few drops of blood. Newer versions use a swab to take a DNA sample from saliva in the mouth. You can order a collection kit via the Internet, fax or mail. The research lab will send you a kit by mail. Following the instructions provided in the kit, you take a sample for DNA analysis and mail it back.

    How long does it take?

    • The biological research laboratory will send you the results in five to seven days. The test results will include an explanation of the findings and suggestions for further action if the results are positive.

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