by JoAnn Gurenlian, RDH, MS, PhD, AAFAAOM, FADHA
July 25, 2024

A recent article in the Journal of Periodontal Research highlighted the importance of providing better education to patients about the link between periodontitis and other chronic diseases. Although health care professionals may understand this association, a study was conducted to determine the level of awareness of patients about this link.

The study, performed by Carra, et al, occurred in France, used a self-reported questionnaire on oral and periodontal health. Participants were included if they had at least one chronic disease defined as a condition that required health care for at least 6 months. The study included 8,537 adults, the majority of whom (59.8%) had two or more chronic diseases.  Of this group, only 26.1% (2230) patients reported being aware of the link between periodontitis and other diseases.  The highest level of awareness was among patients with cancer, obstructive sleep apnea, and cardiovascular diseases. The participants reported their source of information included dentists, physicians, advertisements, or other sources. Further, the prevalence of severe periodontitis was 54.2%. Among this group, only 32.3% were aware of an association with other chronic conditions.

The results of this study demonstrated that almost 75% of patients were ignoring the link between periodontitis and other diseases. This finding was independent from socioeconomic status, periodontal health status, frequency of dental appointments, and perceived access to care.

Although a limitation of the study was the use of self-reported data, the authors recognized an urgent need to promote better communication and knowledge transfer about the association between periodontitis and chronic diseases. They recommended there be additional interventions to promote awareness especially among health care providers who are influential in informing patients about their risk factors. In addition, there needs to be greater emphasis on educating the public so they can be proactive in managing their periodontal health to improve both oral and general health.

To learn more about this research, refer to the paper online.
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This article summarizes the research paper by the Journal of Periodontal Research, “Patients’ Awareness of the Association Between Periodontitis and Other Diseases: Still a Long Way to Go,” J Periodontal Res. 2024 Jul 25 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38833246/).

JoAnn Gurenlian, RDH, MS, PhD, AAFAAOM, FADHA, is the ADHA Director of Education, Research and Advocacy, professor emerita in the Department of Dental Hygiene at ISU, and former president of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association 1990-1991.