Periodontitis is a severe gum disorder that causes destruction of the bones that support the teeth as well as gum tissue. This gum infection can lead to tooth loss and an even higher risk of other extremely serious diseases and conditions, such as stroke, heart attack, and surprisingly, even obesity. Periodontitis is a fairly common disease that is preventable. One way to decrease your chances of ever having this disorder is by practicing strict, proper oral hygiene on a regular basis.
Link to Obesity
In 2003, research conducted at Case Reserve Western University in Cleveland, Ohio, discovered a strong link between periodontitis and obesity. Among individuals between ages 18 and 34 years old, it was noted that for obese persons, the incidence of periodontitis was a staggering 76 percent higher than their normal weight counterparts.
Theories/Speculation
In the study, however, there was no strong connection between periodontitis and obesity with individuals older than 34 years old. This could perhaps be due to the different dietary habits of the younger people researched. Dietary trends in recent years show sharp decreases in the consumption of raw fruits and vegetables, which could lead to a higher plausibility of becoming overweight and even obese. Also, with every year, people drink more and more soda, which leads to weight gain as well as cavities and tooth decay.
Function
In 2008, more research was started at the University of Chicago regarding the link between periodontitis and obesity. Doctors at the University of Chicago College of Dentistry found that periodontitis makes the onset of insulin resistance occur much faster (based on a study conducted on rats).
Statistics
Based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III), a significant connection between periodontal disease and high body fat was discovered in younger adults (but like the previous research, it was not as much between middle-aged and older people).
Considerations
Because of various research conducted, it seems that there is an undeniable link between being obesity and periodontitis in younger adults (between 18 and 34 years old). Promoting sufficient physical activity, exercise and consuming a healthy diet could help to halt the periodontal disease progression rate.
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