Do Mobility and Occlusal Trauma Impact Periodontal Longevity?

The impact of tooth mobility and occlusal trauma (OT) on periodontal bone loss and need for therapy has been debated for many years. This paper summarizes the relevant literature reported in three Dental Clinics of North America articles in the late 1990s, and adds newer information from the 2000s. Principle findings indicate that strong evidence of mobility and OT impacting tooth longevity is lacking, but reducing inflammation in the surrounding periodontium remains a critical treatment. Occlusal therapy when mobility is increasing, comfort or function are compromised, or periodontal regeneration procedures are planned should be considered.