Link between obesity and gum disease

By April Clarkson, April 16th, 2013 | Health | 0 Comments

A study shows that there is a link between obesity in gum disease in the 18 to 34 age group, perhaps because of dietary patterns.

Periodontal disease is infection of the space between the tooth and the gum. It’s very common among the over 55′s, with over half having some degree of periodontal problem. Left unchecked, it can lead to tooth loss and maybe other health problems.

Researchers at Case Western University have now uncovered a previously unexpected link between obesity and periodontal disease in the younger age group, from 18 to 34. Obese people were far more likely to also have periodontal infection. The researchers wonder if this is a reflection of dietary patterns. Younger adults seem to be consuming less milk and more soft drinks and non-citrus juices than before. This has a negative impact on calcium intake and vitamin C - both of which help protect against periodontal disease. And, of course, soft drinks contain sugar and are high in calories - which would tend to make people put on weight.