Study of Oral Bacteria and Immune System Problems in People With Gum Disease and Genetic Immune Defects

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how genetic immune system problems affect the mouth, especially gum disease periodontitis. This study focuses on people with genetic immune defects, those with severe periodontitis possibly caused by genetics, and healthy volunteers with or without gum disease. The goal is to understand the role of immune system defects and oral bacteria in causing gum disease and other mouth conditions over time. The study includes a cross-sectional phase where participants are evaluated through medical history, blood tests, oral exams, dental x-rays, and photos. Samples such as blood, urine, saliva, plaque, gum swabs, and biopsies from abnormal tissue will be collected. Some participants with genetic immune defects and oral disease may join a natural history phase to be followed clinically over time. Family members of affected individuals may also be included for genetic testing and phenotyping. Participants will undergo detailed oral and dental exams, laboratory testing, and answer questions about their oral and medical health. Researchers will study the immune response and microbiome in the oral cavity and characterize the severity of gum disease. Outcomes include measuring oral disease presence, immune system activity, and microbial elements. The study may last up to 25 years for long-term follow-up and aims to develop new tests and establish normal values for oral immune and microbial factors.

Oral Bacteria and Immune System Problems Involved in Gum Disease (Periodontitis)