Case Western Reserve University researchers have found a significant link between obesity and prevalence of gum disease, especially among individuals aged 18 to 34 years.

In a study of more than 13,000 people, the prevalence of periodontal disease among obese individuals aged 18-34 years was 76 percent higher than normal weight individuals in this age group.

No significant association was found between periodontal disease and obesity in the middle and older age groups, the researchers reported in the Journal of Periodontology.

Several explanations for the association between obesity and periodontal disease in younger adults and not older adults are plausible. .

“Periodontists have known for awhile that people who consume less than the recommended dietary allowance for calcium and vitamin C have slightly higher rates of periodontal disease," said Dr. Mohammad S. Al-Zahrani. "Young people are now drinking more soft drinks and non-citrus juices than milk and healthier beverages, decreasing their vitamin C and calcium intake.

“Periodontitis has long been considered an 'older person's' disease, as more than half of people aged 55 or older have it," Al-Zahrani said. "We now know that widespread risk factors such as obesity may also compromise periodontal health in younger populations.”

Other sources: Journal of Periodontology