Bacteria associated with periodontal disease may be directly related to the potential for respiratory infection. These bacteria, along with epithelial changes in lung tissue associated with the inflammatory process, may increase the patient's susceptibility to a lower respiratory infection.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Both statements are True. In untreated periodontitis, oral pathogens continuously stimulate cells of the oral tissues and periodontium to release a variety of cytokines and other biologically active molecules. Cytokines are immune system proteins that act as chemical messengers to stimulate inflammation in the respiratory epithelium. This release of cytokines increases a person's susceptibility to colonization by respiratory pathogens.

Bacteria Associated with Periodontal Disease May Be Directly Related to the Potential