Researchers at Harvard School of Public Health and the University of Puerto Rico recently completed research that suggests a potential link between obesity and periodontal (gum) diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis.
The scientists looked at data from almost 37,000 men in the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study who were free of periodontal disease at the start of follow-up. The participants, whose height was established at the start of the study, were followed for up to 16 years. Their weight and self-reported periodontal disease data were collected from questionnaires sent out every 2 years. Subjects were also asked to measure their waist and hip circumferences and were given a tape measure and specific instructions on how to accurately do so.
The results revealed significant links between all measures of obesity (e.g., body mass index, or BMI, and higher waist and hip circumferences, as well as waist-to-hip ratios) and of periodontal disease, even after accounting for variables such as smoking, age, race, physical activity, fruit and vegetable intake, and whether they had diabetes.
This Harvard University-University of Puerto Rico study wasn't the first to show this association between obesity and gum disease: A 2006 study by researchers from the University of Buffalo also found that obesity is a significant predictor for periodontal disease, independent of age, gender, race, ethnicity, and smoking. Their study included 12,367 non-diabetic individuals between ages 20 and 90 years who participated in the dental section of the NHANES III study.
Are you at risk for gum disease?
Periodontal (gum) diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. The primary cause of gum disease is bacterial plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on our teeth. Although it's believed that genetics can account for as much as 30 percent of gum disease risk, other factors can include stress, smoking, diabetes, and obesity.
Why is there a link between obesity and gum disease?
One possible explanation includes the relationship between insulin resistance (commonly seen with higher weight and/or obesity) and gum disease. The worse the the body's insulin resistance, the higher the prevalence of lost teeth and progression of gum disease. Similarly, the higher the body mass index, the greater the inflammation and secretion of substances that further worsen gum disease.
What can you do?
The bottom line is that you can prevent health problems like gum disease and insulin resistance (and potentially aid in weight loss) by following these tips:
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Get regular physical activity
- Floss daily and brush your teeth several times a day
- Visit a dentist regularly
You've heard about these behaviors before, but do yourself a favor and actually do them. You might save your gums and your teeth, and prevent more serious health problems in the future.
For more information on gum disease, call for a free brochure entitled Periodontal Diseases: What You Need to Know at 800-FLOSS-EM or by visiting the Web site of the American Academy of Periodontology.
For help with your weight, check out the American Dietetic Association's Web site and click on "Find A Nutrition Professional Near You." You can specify weight management or any other health condition you're dealing with to narrow the search.
Here's to healthy gums AND a healthy weight, dear readers!
