Association between proton pump inhibitors and periodontal disease severity

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed for the management of acid‐related gastrointestinal disorders. PPIs modulate osteoclast function, reduce gastric acid secretion, and are associated with the establishment of a more diverse gastrointestinal microbiota. Periodontitis is characterized by microbe‐associated host‐mediated inflammation that results in loss of periodontal attachment. The aim of this study was to assess whether a relationship exists between PPIs and periodontal disease. Materials and methods A retrospective analysis was performed using patient records from a faculty periodontal practice. The proportion of elevated probing depths was used to measure periodontitis severity. Statistical analysis was performed using independent sample t‐tests, and Chi‐square tests of independence. Results Records from 1093 patients were initially assessed. Fourteen percent of teeth were associated with ≥6 mm probing depths among PPI users, in contrast to 24% for patients not using PPIs (P = 0.030). Similarly, 27% of teeth exhibited ≥5 mm probing depths among PPI users versus 40% for non‐PPI users (P = 0.039). Conclusions The results suggest that PPIs are associated with a reduced proportion of elevated probing depths. Future prospective studies are indicated to elucidate possible mechanisms through which PPIs might affect, and potentially be used in the treatment of, periodontitis.

Keywords

• medications
• periodontal disease
• periodontitis
• probing depth
• proton pump inhibitors