Periodontal status in hypertensive OSA patients ten years after diagnosis and PAP initiation.

Abstract

<b>Background</b>: A link between obstructive sleep apnea [OSA] and periodontal status is suggested due to systemic inflammation and hyposalivation. <b>Aim:</b> To compare periodontal status in hypertensive patients with or without long-term presence of OSA, treated or not treated with positive airway pressure [PAP]. <b>Methods:</b> Initially (2007-2009) polygraphy was used to screen for OSA among 394 hypertensive primary care patients after which PAP was provided according to clinical guidelines. Ten years later a clinical and radiographic dental examination including side-chair test with matrix metalloproteinase-8 [MMP-8] was conducted on 121 of the patients (mean age 69.4 years). Alveolar bone level, bleeding on probing [BoP], and probing pocket depth were used to divide patients into four periodontal status groups as presented in figure 1. Comparisons regarding periodontal status were made among patients with hypertension, untreated OSA and those with PAP-treated OSA. <b>Results:</b> Distribution of periodontal status among patients with hypertension, untreated OSA and PAP-treated OSA is presented in figure 1. Hypertensive patients without OSA were more frequently categorized as having periodontal health/gingivitis. No difference was seen regarding other periodontitis groups or levels of MMP-8. <b>Conclusions:</b> Hypertensive patients without OSA, more often had periodontal health/gingivitis compared to those with OSA, or those with PAP-treated OSA.