Chronic periodontitis and reduced respiratory function

Objective: To investigate whether there was an association between chronic periodontitis (CP) and reduced respiratory function. Methods: A group of dentate 58- to 72-year-old men in Northern Ireland had a comprehensive periodontal examination. Parallel to the periodontal examination, participants completed questionnaires gathering information on their medical history, social circumstances, demographic background and tobacco use. A physical examination assessed anthropometric measures. Fasting blood samples were obtained and analysed for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). Spirometry measures were performed using a wedge bellows spirometer (Vitalograph S Model). The primary outcome variable of interest was the percentage predicted forced expiratory volume in one-second (% predicted FEV ₁ ). Analysis included multiple linear regression with adjustment for various confounders and a regression-based mediation analysis. Results: A total of 1,380 men were included in the analysis. The mean age was 63.7 years (SD 3.0). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that a doubling in mean clinical attachment loss (CAL) equated to a −3.33% (95% CI: −4.80, −1.86), p < 0.001 change in % predicted FEV ₁ after adjustment for all other potential confounding variables. Systemic inflammation, as measured by hs-CRP, only accounted for a minor mediating pathway effect (9%). Conclusions: In this homogenous group of dentate men, CP was significantly associated with a reduced respiratory function.