Diagnostic Biomarkers in Periodontics

Periodontitis is a disease characterized by loss of connective tissue attachment and bone around the teeth in conjunction with the formation of periodontal pockets due to the apical migration of the junctional epithelium. Early diagnosis and treatment of progressive periodontitis is important because of the irreversible nature of this disease. Clinical measurements used in diagnosis of periodontal diseases are often of limited usefulness in that they are indications of previous periodontal disease rather than the present disease activity. Diagnostic biomarkers in oral fluids like saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) are highly beneficial in the determination of current periodontal status. These substances known as biomarkers help in determination of inflammatory mediator levels.