The causal relationship between childhood obesity and adult oral health: A 2-sample Mendelian randomization study

Childhood obesity is an escalating global public health concern with potential long-term implications for various health outcomes, including oral health. While the association between childhood obesity and systemic diseases is well-documented, its specific impact on adult oral health remains underexplored. This study utilized a 2-sample Mendelian randomization approach to explore the causal relationship between childhood obesity and several adult oral health conditions, including gingivitis, chronic periodontitis, dental caries, temporomandibular joint disorder, and malocclusion. Genetic instruments associated with childhood obesity were applied to assess their potential causal effect on these oral health outcomes. The analysis revealed a significant inverse association between childhood obesity and the risk of developing chronic periodontitis (P = .040, odds ratios [OR] = 0.871), temporomandibular joint disorder (P = .002, OR = 0.796), and malocclusion (P = .019, OR = 0.879) in adulthood, suggesting a protective effect. However, no significant associations were found between childhood obesity and gingivitis (P = .799, OR = 0.968) or dental caries (P = .603, OR = 0.970). This study provides novel insights into the relationship between childhood obesity and adult oral health, indicating a complex and potentially protective role of childhood obesity against certain oral health conditions. These findings highlight the importance of a nuanced approach when considering the long-term health implications of childhood obesity in public health strategies.