Objective: Helicobacter Pylori has been associated with gastric diseases, including cancer. Its presence has been demonstrated in dental plaque and saliva. The oral cavity could, thus, become a reservoir for H. pylori. The present study was designed to assess the degree in which H. pylori is found in dental plaque and saliva of individuals with periodontal disease. Methods: 30 periodontitis patients participated. 15 had a history of gastric problems while 15 had not. A full mouth periodontal examination was provided. Dental plaque was collected with Gracey curettes. Saliva samples were obtained with paper points. They were evaluated using genic amplification tests of the PCR type. Specific primers were created for the gene that codifies the RNAr 16S for H. pylori. The specificity of the primers was proven, showing no crossed reaction against any other related microorganism. Results: 86.7% of dental plaque samples from 15 periodontitis patients without gastric symptoms were negative to H. pylori, but 13.3% were positive. 43.3% of subjects with gastric symptoms were positive to H. pylori in dental plaque samples. Saliva samples were negative throughout. Conclusions: 1. H. Pylori can be detected in dental plaque of periodontitis patients using PCR methodology. 2. It is not detected in saliva. 3.The pocket could represent a transitory reservoir for H. pylori in subjects with gastrointestinal symptomatology.

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