Alcohol Use May Negatively Impact Oral Health

Brazilian researchers have determined that consuming alcohol may negatively impact periodontal health, worsening cases of periodontitis or increasing periodontal disease risk factors. The study, “Alcohol Consumption and Periodontitis: Quantification of Periodontal Pathogens and Cytokines,” was published online in the Journal of Periodontology.

In the study, the researchers evaluated a sample of 542 regular alcohol users, occasional drinkers, and nondrinkers both with and without periodontitis. They found that the periodontal health of drinkers with periodontitis decreased in correlation to the frequency of their alcohol consumption. Those who consumed alcohol also had greater pocket depths than the individuals who abstained. Plaque levels were higher among drinkers without periodontitis than nondrinkers without periodontitis.

“Although the topic of alcohol use and its effect on periodontal health requires further research, this report offers valuable insight on why our patients should care for their oral health, especially if they enjoy the occasional drink,” remarked Joan Otomo-Corgel, DDS, MPH, president of the American Academy of Periodontology and Dimensions of Dental Hygiene Editorial Advisory Board member.

From Dimensions of Dental Hygiene. August 2015;13(8):14.