Are Tooth Loss and Kidney Disease Connected?

Tooth loss can result in a variety of problems. When we lose teeth, the jawbone that was intended to support them can begin to reabsorb, and the rest of the teeth may start to shift into the newly-emptied spot. Depending on where the tooth is, it can also be difficult to eat, bite, and speak properly. Now, new research is giving us another reason to boost our oral hygiene efforts to care for our teeth – a connection has been found between tooth loss and kidney disease.

What Was Found in this Newest Study?

This new study was completed at Case Western Reserve University, although the findings were published within the Journal of Periodontology. Researchers looked at gum health indicators and kidney functioning of over 4,000 adults in the U.S who were at least 40 years old. After adjusting for certain chronic kidney disease risk factors, this study found that a participant who had lost all their teeth were more likely to suffer from kidney disease than patients who had maintained natural teeth.

Why is Kidney Disease a Problem?

According to the National Kidney Foundation, one out of every nine Americans suffers from kidney disease. This condition can affect bon health and blood pressure, and it might eventually lead to kidney failure or heart disease.

What is the Connection Between Tooth Loss and Kidney Disease?

According to the study completed at Case, chronic inflammation might play a role in the development of kidney disease in patients who are missing teeth. Gum disease is a primary cause of tooth loss, and this inflammatory disease could also be a link to problems with the mouth and kidney disease.

The major takeaway from this study is the importance of oral health to prevent tooth loss. By committing to a proper oral hygiene routine, you could minimize the risk of losing teeth and developing kidney disease in the future.

Please contact us if you have any questions about tooth loss and kidney disease.