Tannerella forsythia
BacteriaThe third member of the red complex, consistently found in progressive periodontal lesions.
This is information about your result, not a diagnosis. Your provider can tell you what it means for you.
What is Tannerella forsythia?
T. forsythia (formerly Bacteroides forsythus) is a gram-negative anaerobic bacterium and the third member of the periodontal red complex. It produces enzymes that break down proteins in gum tissue and is consistently found in sites with active bone loss.
Why it matters
T. forsythia is commonly found where gum disease is active. Its presence, especially with the other red complex bacteria, is associated with ongoing bone and gum loss.
What a high result can mean
A high level is associated with the mix of bacteria seen in gum disease. Even without obvious symptoms, a high count can be associated with gum disease that has not yet made itself felt.
What usually happens next
Your dentist may recommend gum treatment. Watching the level over time helps show whether treatment is working.
Related markers
Porphyromonas gingivalis
A key “red complex” bacterium strongly linked to severe periodontal disease.
Treponema denticola
A red complex spirochete bacterium associated with advanced periodontal disease.
Matrix metalloproteinase-8
An enzyme that directly breaks down collagen, the structural protein of gum tissue.
This page explains what the test measures. It is not a diagnosis, and it cannot tell you what your result means for you. Your provider can.