Alcohol consumption may increase the risk of periodontal disease.
Chronic alcohol consumption, tobacco use, nutritional deficiency, psychological issues and systemic diseases may all contribute to the development of periodontal disease. Prior research has estimated that between 5% and 50% of the global population may experience tooth loss related to periodontitis. Recent data has suggested that a larger proportion of the younger population may be consuming alcoholic beverages. Although most cases of periodontal disease occur as a result of poor oral hygiene, some cases may be induced by alcohol dependency.
In a narrative review, published in Cureus, investigators examined and described the effects of alcohol consumption on oral health and the pathogenesis of periodontal disease. They used 2000 to 2023 data from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Elton B. Stephens Company to identify systematic reviews, narrative reviews, and observational studies assessing alcohol’s effects on periodontal tissues.
The investigators found that alcoholic beverages adversely impacted periodontal tissue. Alcoholic beverages have been shown to promote the presence of acid-producing pathogens that demineralize the enamel and damage the teeth and gums. Colored alcoholic beverages may stain the teeth and cause toxic effects on the periodontium.
Those who consume alcohol chronically could alter their oral microbiome, encourage heightened inflammation in the oral cavity and the rest of the body, and dampen their immune response against bacteria and pathogenic organisms—thereby increasing the likelihood of oral pathogens that can cause periodontal disease. Some alcoholic beverages are known to reduce salivation and support the proliferation of acid-producing oral pathogens through sugar content.
Chronic alcohol consumption may lead to gingival bleeding, swollen gums, halitosis, bone loss, caries, necrotizing lesions, and potentially cancer. Long-term use can further establish an inflammatory environment in which the brain, liver, and gut microbiome are affected. Tobacco intake, smoking status, and poor oral hygiene were also found to be associated with a greater risk of periodontal disease.
The investigators emphasized that alcohol use is a significant factor causing clinical attachment loss, pocket formation, dental caries, and oral microbe imbalances. As a result, alcohol intake should be limited to maintain oral health. The investigators underscored the need for attending dental surgeons and other health care professionals to perform counseling to address chronic alcohol consumption in those with alcohol dependency.
No conflicts of interest were disclosed.