Periodontal Disease and COPD

Abstract

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease caused predominantly by Gram-negative, anaerobic, and microaerophilic bacteria that colonise the subgingival area though modified by environment, physical, social and host stresses. It results in progressive destruction of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone with increased probing depth, recession, or both [1]. Throughout the history of mankind, it has been believed that oral diseases and maladies including periodontal disease may have an effect on the rest of the body. Over the centuries, writings from the ancient Egyptians, Hebrews, Assyrians, Greeks and Romans, have all noted the importance of the mouth in overall health and well-being. Thus, the concept of linking periodontitis and systemic diseases could be traced back to the beginning of recorded history and medicine [2]. Periodontal disease has been linked to an increased risk of various systemic diseases, including the respiratory diseases e.g. pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) [3]. COPD is a generic term defined by the presence of airflow obstruction with excess production of sputum resulting from chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema. It has been recognized as one of the major causes of death and disability globally and is the fourth leading cause of death in United States [4]. The aetiology of COPD is complex and multifactorial, involving multiple genetic and environmental factors [5]. An enhanced or abnormal inflammatory response to inhaled particles or gases, beyond the normal protective inflammatory response in the lungs, is a characteristic feature of COPD and is potential to produce lung injury