Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax in Periodontal Disease

This review is aimed at elucidating the role of Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax in the aetiology of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease results from localised inflammation of the periodontium due to plaque accumulation and if left untreated can lead to loss of teeth. Although dental plaque is composed mainly of bacteria, Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax, both of which are protozoan parasites have been found in plaque and implicated in periodontal disease. E. gingivalis is an amoeba associated with poor oral hygiene while T. tenax is a pyriform flagellate that lives in the tartar around the teeth, cavities of carious teeth, necrotic mucosal cells in the gingival margins of gums and pus pockets in tonsillar follicles. These parasites are transmitted by close contact, saliva, droplet spray and kissing or use of contaminated dishes, cups, spoons and forks as well as drinking water. Age, gender, socio-economic status, dental condition and gingival pathology have been reported to influence the presence of the parasite. Genetic variability and stress are also some of the factors that determine the transition of the periodontium at some gingival sites from healthy to inflame. Researchers have observed that the prevalence and severity of periodontitis is higher in developing countries than developed countries. But with good oral hygiene, regular scaling and polishing and use of antiparasitic drugs, periodontal disease caused by these parasites can be prevented and periodontal health restored.