Periodontitis Linked to Less Need for Allergy and Infection Treatments
Recently, a record study was printed in the J. of Periodont. (August, 2008), that showed that subjects with periodontitis were less likely to receive allergy medications and/or antibiotics. Investigators looked at 12,631 patient files from the same HMO, which included a 7 year period; these patients also had periodontitis. This record review assessed patient data with moderate or severe periodontitis to patients with only mild periodontitis. Patients with moderate or severe periodontitis: 1) had a 36% lower probability to taking antibiotics for urinary tract infection(s); 2) had a 24% lower probability of using decongestants; 3) has a 23% lower probability of taking antihistamines; 4) had a 18% lower probability of using antibiotic creams and/or gels; 5) had a 12% lower probability of taking cough and cold medicines, and; 6) had a 12% lower probability of taking antibiotics in the form of pills. The authors say more research is needed on how periodontitis, allergies and infections may be related. Few studies have been done in this area.
A 2006 research study of 9,385 people showed people have antibodies to bacteria that cause periodontal disease; some more than others. These subjects were less likely to wheeze, have asthma or have hay fever. Research is proposing the “hygiene hypothesis.” Individuals who are exposed to fewer germs during their childhoods had a higher probability of developing allergies. Therefore, individuals exposed to periodontitis and other infections may have a lower probability of developing allergies. The 2006 study, and this one, included subjects that were 12 years plus of age. However, periodontitis causing bacteria have been shown to exist in > 35% of children; some 3 weeks old.
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