Obesity May Increase The Risk Of Periodontal Disease
The growing obesity epidemic is a concern because it has been shown to increase the risk of a number of conditions, including type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. There have also been studies done to show that obesity may also increase the risk of periodontal disease, which is a condition that causes gum inflammation. Periodontal disease is an extremely common condition, which affects about 80 percent of adults. If periodontal disease is not treated, then it will eventually cause the teeth to pull away from the gums. It can also result in tooth loss.
One of the studies that examined the link between periodontal disease and obesity followed 893 men. It was a longitudinal study that lasted from 1968 to 1998. The subjects underwent medical and dental examinations in order to assess their weight, oral health and medical health. They were also asked to complete questionnaires about their smoking habits and hygiene.
The results of the study showed that the men who gained the most weight were at the greatest risk for developing periodontal disease. The study also showed that an increase in waist and arm circumference can also increase the risk of periodontal disease.
How Are Obesity And Periodontal Disease Linked?
Researchers agree that more studies need to be done in order to examine the link between periodontal disease and obesity. However, they do have a few explanations as to why obesity and periodontal disease seem to be linked. People who are obese are at an increased risk for suffering from type 2 diabetes, which has also been linked to periodontal disease. Excess body weight can also cause the condition to progress faster.
Many people who are obese also follow a poor diet. A poor diet can also increase the risk of periodontal disease. Furthermore, researchers have found that periodontal inflammation may worsen the effects of the metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a condition where a person has a cluster of symptoms that increase his or her risk of developing heart disease. Obesity is one of the components of the metabolic syndrome.
What Can Be Done To Combat The Obesity Issue?
Researchers believe that healthcare providers play a role in combating obesity and periodontal disease. Providing nutritional education and counseling can help people make better food choices. This in turn will help reduce their risk of becoming obese, which can protect one's oral health.
People who are already obese can protect their oral and overall health by losing weight. It is important to note that one does not have to lose a lot of weight to reap the benefits. In fact, studies have shown that small amounts of weight loss offer big benefits.
Bio
This guest post contribution is courtesy of Leavitt Dentistry, the local Pocatello Dentist in South East Idaho. Dr. Leavitt offers a wide array of services for the whole family.
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