Periodontal disease severity is associated with micronutrient intake

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Oral Health Research
• Public Health

Background:

• Periodontal disease is a significant global health concern.
• Micronutrient deficiencies have been anecdotally linked to various chronic conditions.
• The specific role of micronutrients in periodontal disease severity requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between the intake of specific micronutrients and the severity of periodontal disease.
• To analyze data from a large, nationally representative US population.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2014.
• Included 6415 participants aged 30 years and older with complete periodontal examinations.
• Performed multivariable regression analyses to determine associations between micronutrient intake and periodontal disease severity.

Main Results:

• Lower intake of vitamin A, B1, C, E, iron, folate, and phosphorus was significantly associated with increased periodontal disease severity.
• Vitamin D intake showed a complex association, with the second-highest intake level linked to lower severity compared to the highest.
• Specific adjusted odds ratios (aOR) were reported for each associated micronutrient.

Conclusions:

• Insufficient intake of key vitamins (A, B1, C, E), iron, folate, and phosphorus is significantly associated with periodontal disease severity.
• Dietary modifications or supplementation with these micronutrients may be a potential strategy to mitigate periodontal disease.
• Further research into the therapeutic potential of these micronutrients in managing periodontal health is warranted.