Further Evidence Links Obesity And Tooth Loss

Further Evidence Links Obesity And Tooth Loss

GDP’s are expected to take an ever wider interest in their patient’s lifestyles. Enquiring about smoking and alcohol consumption has become routine and can sometimes be the start of an important conversation. 

Dentist’s interest in patients’ weight has tended to be restricted to checking that it is safe for them to use the treatment chair, and how an individuals dietary and eating habits might affect their caries risk. With 64% of British adults classified as overweight, including the 28% considered obese, they represent an increasing challenge in many areas of healthcare.

A new study from Japan claims to show another reason to take an interest in each patients weight. The joint study between Shiga University of Medical Science and the Sunstar Company has shown that there is an increased risk of tooth loss associated with obesity, in the over 40 age group.

Using data from check-ups and health insurance claims, the relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) and tooth loss information were investigated. Claimed to be the largest of its kind, the cross-sectional study of over 200,000 adults showed a link between a higher BMI and increased tooth loss. The study went on to recommend that for obese patients there was a particular importance in regular dental examinations and timely treatment of caries and periodontal disease, as well as weight control.

It should be noted that while in the UK a BMI of 25 to 29 is categorised as overweight rather than obese, for this survey all those with a BMI over 25 were classified as obese. Molars were particularly affected.  For smokers there was a further increase in the risk of tooth loss in other areas. Obesity was confirmed as a risk factor independently of sex, age, smoking and diabetes.

Previous research by Shiga University and Sunstar had shown that poor glycaemic control is associated with a reduced number of teeth in those over 30. While obesity in Japan has historically been lower than in Western countries it is on the increase there, with 33% of men and 22% of women now having a BMI of 25 or more.

The paper concluded that, “The research based on real-world big data demonstrates that obesity, a risk factor for various diseases, accelerates tooth loss at a relatively young age. People with obesity should be encouraged to prevent tooth loss and maintain good health by visiting the dentist early to treat periodontal disease and caries and by caring for their molars with a proper oral hygiene routine.”

Sunstar is a multinational company founded in Japan. It owns a number of health and beauty and oral care brands, including GUM and Butler.


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