What is Treponema denticola?
T. denticola is a spiral-shaped (spirochete) bacterium found in deep periodontal pockets. As a member of the red complex, it is strongly associated with severe forms of periodontitis. It is highly motile and can penetrate gum tissue.
Why It Matters
T. denticola works synergistically with P. gingivalis and T. forsythia to destroy periodontal tissues. It produces enzymes that degrade connective tissue and suppresses the immune response, allowing the infection to persist and progress.
What Elevated Levels Mean
Elevated levels suggest active periodontal infection, especially when found alongside other red complex pathogens. The combination of multiple elevated red complex bacteria indicates a higher risk of progressive attachment loss.
What To Do Next
Treatment typically involves professional deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) combined with targeted antimicrobial therapy. Your provider will develop a treatment plan based on the full pathogen profile.
Related Biomarkers
Porphyromonas gingivalis
A key "red complex" bacterium strongly linked to severe periodontal disease.
Tannerella forsythia
The third member of the red complex, consistently found in progressive periodontal lesions.
Interleukin-1 beta
A key inflammatory mediator that triggers bone resorption in periodontal disease.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your dental provider for interpretation of your specific results.