Obesity
In this column, I am trying to make sure that everyone knows the importance of oral health. If your gums sometimes bleed, this is not a good sign and it should be reviewed by a dentist.
This month, I will explore the links between poor oral health and the topic of Obesity.
Research is ongoing to determine the relationship between obesity and oral health. Being overweight or obese is a known risk factor for a variety of health conditions, including hypertension, blood fat abnormalities, heart disease, and stroke. However, recent evidence suggests that obesity may also be associated with periodontitis, a serious gum infection that can lead to tooth loss and other health problems.
High waist circumference has been found to be a risk factor for periodontitis in young adults aged 18-34 years, but not in older adults. Similarly, upper body obesity has been shown to be related to periodontal disease in adults. One study found that overweight children in public and private schools in the US were more likely to have dental decay than non-obese children.
While some studies have conflicting results regarding the relationship between obesity and dental decay, recent research indicates that areas of decay between teeth were more frequently diagnosed in teenagers of 15 years who were overweight (ISO-Body Mass Index >25) compared to normal-weight individuals. Another study showed that childhood obesity is associated with reduced flow rate of saliva and dental decay.
Moreover, obese adolescents tend to have a higher number of decayed, missing, or filled teeth. In fact, one study found that adolescents with higher numbers of decayed, missing or filled teeth tended to be obese. Clinicians need to be aware that patients with abdominal obesity may have a greater burden of infection, which not only places them at greater risk for periodontitis but also compounds their risk for heart disease, as discussed earlier.
In conclusion, research suggests that obesity is associated with periodontitis and dental decay, particularly in young people. Clinicians should consider the potential impact of obesity on oral health when assessing and treating patients.
We know that the over consumption of sugary drinks is one of the leading causes of obesity, particularly in younger generations who have made it a habit of slugging down 2L bottles of Coke and the like, but that is a topic for a future article.
To book an appointment with Dr Johnston simply call Beerwah Dental 07 5494 0766 or visit www.beerwahdental.com.au to book online
*Links between oral health and general health – the case for action – published by Dental Health Service Vic.