The interrelationship between periodontal disease and systemic health

Background Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease and has been linked to various systemic conditions. The chronic inflammation associated with periodontal disease could affect systemic health, while systemic conditions may also impact periodontal disease progression and severity.

Aims This narrative review aims to examine the associations between periodontal disease and systemic diseases, with a focus on understanding the underlying mechanisms for each bodily system.

Methods A comprehensive literature review was conducted to evaluate studies investigating periodontal disease as a potential factor influencing systemic health. Key topics included mechanisms of microbial translocation, inflammation and immune dysregulation across various systems.

Results Periodontal disease has been associated with systemic inflammation and immune responses that may contribute to the development or exacerbation of systemic conditions. Specific pathways may involve bacterial translocation, cytokine production and immune hyperresponsiveness, all of which may affect systemic health.

Discussion Managing periodontal health may reduce inflammatory markers associated with systemic diseases; although, evidence remains inconclusive for most conditions due to study heterogeneity.

Conclusion Understanding the interactions between periodontal disease and systemic conditions could guide integrated healthcare strategies, emphasising periodontal care to improve systemic health outcomes. Further research is needed to clarify causal relationships and therapeutic benefits.