Association between periodontitis and metabolic syndrome: A case-control study

Background Over the past few years, the association between metabolic disorders and periodontitis has been widely studied and recognized. However, the relationship between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and periodontitis remains controversial. The aim of the present case-control (1:3) study is to evaluate the potential association between periodontitis and MetS, as well as the influence of risk variables on this association. Methods Samples comprised 122 individuals with MetS (cases) and 366 controls. Plaque index, probing depth, clinical attachment level, and bleeding on probing were evaluated through a full-mouth periodontal examination. The association between risk variables, MetS, and periodontitis was tested through univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression. Results A high prevalence of periodontitis was observed among cases (54.6%) when compared with controls (45.4%). Significant variables associated with the occurrence of periodontitis in the final logistic model were: MetS (odds ratio [OR] = 2.02; P = 0.003), number of teeth <= 14 (OR = 1.78; P = 0.034), and smoking (OR = 2.19; P = 0.001). Conclusions An important risk association between MetS and periodontitis was reported, being that individuals with MetS presented worse periodontal status and higher prevalence, severity, and extension of periodontitis.