Clinical parameters of oral cavity, physical and microbiological properties of saliva in patients with obesity

Abstract

Background. The results of several studies show not only a relationship of obesity with systemic diseases, but also with changes in the oral environment. Objectives. The aim of this study was to carry out clinical evaluation of oral status, the amount of saliva, bacterial titers for Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus spp., and to analyze hygienic habits in people with obesity. Material and Methods. The study included 125 people, of both sexes, aged 20–65 years. The study group consisted of patients from the Clinic of Internal Medicine, Metabolism and Dietetics at the Poznan University of Medical Sciences with a BMI > 25 kg/m2; a control group – patients from the Clinic of Conservative Dentistry and Periodontology at the Poznan University of Medical Sciences with normal weight (BMI < 25 kg/m2). Diabetics were excluded from the study. All participants were asked to complete a short questionnaire. During the clinical trial the authors rated the incidence of dental caries (DMF-t and DMF-s), the state of oral hygiene (API, PLI), the state of gums (SBI, GI), and periodontal pocket depth (PPD). The material for laboratory analysis constituted unstimulated and stimulated mixed saliva. For microbiological tests the authors used CRT bacteria® Ivoclar Vivadent with a component for Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus spp. Saliva was collected always at the same time of day, between 10.00 a.m. and 1.00 p.m. Patients were 2 h after a meal. Results. There was a higher incidence of tooth caries, worse gum condition and worse oral hygiene status in obese patients compared with those of normal weight. It has been demonstrated significantly lower amount of rest and stimulated saliva in patients with obesity compared to those of normal weight. There was a statistically significant correlation between the levels of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus spp. and the groups of patients. Conclusions. Obesity may contribute to the clinical deterioration of oral cavity, reduced salivary flow, and increased titer of bacteria.