The periodontal management of a patient with a profound immunodeficiency disorder

A case of severe, uncontrolled periodontal disease in a patient with a profound immunodeficiency disorder is reported. The periodontal disease was noted before the age of 10 years and is generalized, with marked associated alveolar bone loss, even threatening a mandibular fracture. Severely involved teeth were allowed to exfoliate, and extractions were avoided. At the age of 17 years, the patient now has only nine remaining teeth. The management adopted and alternative approaches are critically reviewed. The implications of the dental findings for current concepts of the pathogenesis of periodontal disease and dental caries are discussed.