Bad breath, bad news: how gum disease could worsen liver conditions: Part II

A new review has examined the mounting evidence linking periodontal disease — commonly known as gum disease — to chronic liver conditions, including cirrhosis, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and alcohol-related liver disease. The immune system also plays a central role in this interaction. The clinical data, while still developing, support this association. Patients with cirrhosis consistently show worse oral health than the general population, with higher rates of gingival overgrowth, attachment loss, and bone loss. The prevalence of periodontitis among patients awaiting liver transplantation can be as high as 72 percent. Studies have also found links between severe periodontal disease and increased mortality in cirrhosis patients.

For those with MASLD, the most common form of chronic liver disease, the evidence is also compelling. Population-level studies have found that people with advanced periodontitis are significantly more likely to have MASLD, even after adjusting for shared risk factors like obesity and diabetes. And in one study, periodontal treatment led to a short-term improvement in liver enzyme levels — a tantalizing hint that oral health interventions could influence liver function. One message is clear: brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits might be more important than we ever realized.

If you, your family, or friends need dental care, we would be honored to provide you with state-of-the-art dental care in our modern dental practice.  Refer someone you love to someone you trust!

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