Hyperuricemia as a Systemic Risk Factor for Periodontal Disease: A Review of Clinical and Microbial Evidence

Abstract

(1) Background: Hyperuricemia and periodontal disease are interconnected through shared inflammatory pathways, oxidative stress, and microbiome alterations. Both conditions involve chronic inflammation with uric acid contributing to systemic inflammation and oxidative stress that can exacerbate gum disease. Studies suggest that hyperuricemia may alter the oral microbiome, increasing the risk of periodontal infections. In addition, gout, a condition linked to chronic hyperuricemia, is associated with a higher prevalence of periodontal disease. (2) Objective: This study aims to investigate the association between hyperuricemia and periodontal disease, focusing on their inflammatory and microbial pathways. By integrating the literature data, the research attempts to better understand the potential role of gout as a risk factor for periodontal disease. (3) Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the PICOS framework, including studies that evaluated the association between gout and periodontal disease. (4) Results: The review highlighted a consistent association between gout and increased periodontal inflammation, which was likely driven by shared inflammatory mediators. (5) Conclusions: The effective management of periodontal disease in patients with gout requires supportive oral hygiene practices, lifestyle changes/control of uric acid levels through diet, as well as specific therapy to reduce inflammation and microbial pathogens to reduce disease severity.

Keywords

• periodontal disease
• gout
• inflammatory indices
• periodontal pathogens