New Consensus Report Confirms Link Between Gum Disease and Systemic Diseases

European periodontology and family medicine organisations have jointly released a consensus report detailing the relationship between periodontal diseases and systemic diseases.

The report, which combines the findings of previous studies on the association between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory diseases, was compiled by a joint workshop of the European Federation of Periodontology and the European arm of the World Organization of Family Doctors.

The report states that periodontitis is independently associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), obstructive sleep apnea, and COVID-19 complications.

As a result, dentists and family doctors are being urged to collaborate in managing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by implementing strategies for early detection of periodontitis in primary care centres and of cardiovascular diseases or diabetes in dental settings.

Implications for Dentists and Family Doctors

The joint workshop by the EFP and the European arm of the World Organisation of Family Doctors (WONCA Europe) aimed to explore the implications for dentists and family doctors of the association between periodontal and systemic diseases and the role of these healthcare providers in managing NCDs and promoting healthy lifestyles.

The consensus report of the workshop highlighted the need for closer collaboration between oral health professionals (OHPs) and family doctors in the early detection and management of NCDs.

Strategies for early detection of periodontitis should be implemented in primary care centers, and cardiovascular diseases or diabetes should be detected in dental settings. Family doctors should be informed about periodontal diseases and their consequences, while OHPs should be informed about NCDs and the associated risk factors.

Findings and Results

The joint workshop has emphasized the importance of recognizing the association between periodontal and systemic diseases and the need for closer collaboration between OHPs and family doctors. This collaboration can lead to early detection and management of NCDs, ultimately promoting healthier lifestyles and improving overall health outcomes.

The report underscores the need for developing and evaluating pathways for early case detection of periodontitis in family medicine practices and of NCDs in dental practices. The shift towards a more holistic approach to healthcare is necessary to provide comprehensive care and address the global burden of NCDs.