Association between allergic rhinitis and oral disease: a meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Allergy and Immunology
• Oral Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The relationship between allergic rhinitis (AR) and oral diseases is not well-established.
• Existing research presents conflicting findings on their bidirectional association.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize the scientific literature on the association between allergic rhinitis and oral diseases.
• To elucidate the potential bidirectional relationship between these two health conditions.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science).
• Observational studies investigating AR and oral diseases were included.
• Data were aggregated using a random-effects model, with subgroup and sensitivity analyses performed.

Main Results:

• Nine observational studies were analyzed.
• No significant overall association was found between oral health status and AR (OR=1.01, 95%CI:0.84-1.22) or between AR and oral diseases (OR=0.97, 95%CI:0.76-1.23).
• Subgroup analysis of cross-sectional studies indicated a potential inverse correlation (OR=0.77, 95%CI:0.67-0.89).

Conclusions:

• There is no significant overall association between allergic rhinitis and oral diseases based on current evidence.
• High heterogeneity was observed, especially when AR was the exposure.
• Cross-sectional study findings suggest a possible inverse relationship, but require cautious interpretation and validation through prospective research.