In a new study, researchers found that periodontitis (PD) is a possible risk factor for high blood pressure.
The research was conducted by a team from University College London and elsewhere.
Periodontitis is inflammation of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is one of the most common human diseases.
It is caused by certain bacteria (known as periodontal bacteria) and by the local inflammation triggered by those bacteria.
In the study, the team conducted a systematic review to examine the association between periodontitis and high blood pressure.
Data from 40 studies were included in their quantitative meta-analyses.
The researchers found that diagnoses of moderate-severe and severe PD were linked to an increased risk for high blood pressure.
In prospective studies, the researchers confirmed the association of PD diagnosis with an increased likelihood of high blood pressure occurrence.
Compared with people without PD, patients with PD had higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
In addition, 5 of 12 interventional studies confirmed a reduction in BP following treatment of PD, with reductions of 3 to 12.5 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure and 0 to 10 mm Hg in diastolic blood pressure.
The team says the findings highlight the potential to improve heart health by addressing poor oral health in the general population.
Longer and larger studies are needed however to determine whether periodontal treatment benefits patients in terms of cardiovascular health.
The lead author of the study is Eva Muñoz Aguilera, from University College London.
The study is published in Cardiovascular Research.
Copyright © 2019 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
