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Risk factors in periodontology: a conceptual framework
Author(s) -
Bouchard Philippe,
Carra Maria Clotilde,
Boillot Adrien,
Mora Francis,
Rangé Hélène
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
journal of clinical periodontology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.456
H-Index - 151
eISSN - 1600-051X
pISSN - 0303-6979
DOI - 10.1111/jcpe.12650
Subject(s) - periodontology , periodontitis , causality (physics) , risk factor , medicine , disease , risk assessment , intensive care medicine , dentistry , computer science , pathology , physics , computer security , quantum mechanics
Aim The definition and assessment of risk factors, risk indicators and predisposing factors are of paramount importance in the understanding of the pathogenesis of periodontitis, as well as in its prevention and treatment. This article aims to emphasize the concepts of causal chains and the causal network of risk factors in periodontitis. Materials and Methods This is a narrative review focusing on two main questions: (1) what is a risk in periodontology? and (2) how can a risk be assessed? Results The probability of the occurrence of an adverse outcome following exposure is not sufficient to analyse the impact of a risk factor on the disease. A network model for the pathway of risk factors in the pathogenesis of periodontitis is described. This article emphasizes the concepts of causal chains and the causal network of risk factors in periodontitis. Conclusion Chronic periodontal diseases are among the most complex non‐communicable diseases. A conceptual framework intended to clarify the relationship between risk and causality may improve the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of chronic diseases. The proposed causal network may provide a model to assess the role of risk factors in periodontitis.