Occlusion and periodontal disease--where is the link?

The effect of occlusion on the periodontium has been the subject of much debate. Interest on this subject has decreased over the years but has been renewed with the popularity of implant dentistry. This paper reviews the literature and explores the relationship between trauma from occlusion with periodontal disease and peri-implant bone loss. With regards to periodontal disease, there are two schools of thought on the effect that trauma from occlusion has on the periodontium. One believes that trauma from occlusion is a co-destructive factor in the initiation and progression of periodontal disease. The other believes that it is not. Up till now, there are no conclusive explanations on the association between trauma from occlusion and periodontal disease. For dental implants, current literature suggests that there is an association between occlusal overloading and peri-implant bone loss even in the absence of inflammation. However, there is a need for more randomized clinical trials to validate this relationship.