Elevated periodontal disease risk in ulcerative colitis patients: evidence from a comparative case-control study

The aim was to evaluate periodontal health in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients and the relationship between UC and periodontitis. Since both diseases are immuno-inflammatory mediated, periodontal parameters and their correlation to disease activity indices in UC patients in comparison with healthy subjects were analysed. A cross-sectional comparative case-control study was conducted involving 80 subjects, consisting of 40 patients with UC and 40 age- and gender-matched healthy controls, all examined at a single time point. Full periodontal examination comprised Plaque Index (PlI), Gingival Index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL) and bleeding on probing (BOP). Clinical features of the disease (Mayo score and duration of UC) were documented. Statistical methods employed were independent t-tests, chi-square, and logistic regression model. UC patients had worse periodontal parameters when compared to controls (PlI, GI, PPD, CAL, and BOP; all p < 0.001). Generalized periodontitis was more common in patients with UC (72.5%) than in controls (37.5%; p = 0.002). A slight positive correlation was found between the Mayo score and CAL and BOP. The burden of periodontal disease was significantly higher in UC patients. Incorporating periodontal evaluation and treatment for the management of UC could potentially decrease systemic inflammation and promote overall better health.