Research links poor oral health to increased risk of chronic disease
New research suggests that poor oral health increases the risk of chronic disease.
Researchers from the University of Birmingham found that a history of gum disease elevates the risk of cardiovascular disease, mental health conditions, autoimmune illnesses and cardiometabolic disease.
As part of the study, the research team analysed data from 64,379 patients who had a history of periodontal disease logged by GPs. Of the patient group, 60,995 had a history of gingivitis, mild gum disease, and 3,384 had a record of periodontitis, severe gum disease.
The patient records were compared with those of 251,161 patients who had no history of gum disease. The aim was to determine how many patients with periodontal disease went on to develop chronic illnesses over an average of three years.
Researchers discovered that patients who had a history of gum disease were more likely to experience symptoms of chronic conditions. Patients with a record of periodontal disease had a 37% higher risk of developing mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression and a 33% higher risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
Patients who had suffered from gum disease were also more likely to develop cardiovascular disease (18%) and cardiometabolic illnesses (7%). Among those who had cardiometabolic disorders, the risk of suffering from type 2 diabetes was 26% higher.
Study co-author, Dr Joht Singh Chandan, from the Institute of Applied Health Research at the University of Birmingham, said that poor oral health “can lead to a substantially reduced quality of life.”
Not much is known about the link between oral health and chronic disease, particularly mental health disorders, and this study shines a light on the connection. The findings of the research project highlight the importance of preventative care and effective management of mild symptoms.
The study findings have been published in BMJ Open.
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