Oral Health in Bariatric Patients

The prevalence of overweight and obesity is increasing since the 1980s. Being associated with several risk factors such as hypertension, hyperinsulinemia and hyperlipidemia, obesity presents an immediate and long-term health risk for diabetes mellitus, heart diseases, osteoarthritis and certain forms of cancer. For the control of obesity several therapy options have been developed: Beside conservative treatments including change of diet and lifestyle, bariatric surgery is considered as a promising option for patients with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2). Allowing impressive weight loss from 40 to 80% and effective reduction of comorbidities, bariatric surgery shows some negative/adverse effects as well, like kidney problems, hyperparathyroidism, anemia and metabolic bone diseases. For oral health, two facts are particularly important to consider: Firstly, chronic regurgitation reaching the oral cavity is an important risk factor for erosive tooth wear which initially appear as smooth silky-shining glazed surfaces. Further progress is often associated with hypersensitivities and aesthetic deficits. Over time, often substantial loss can been observed, provoking hypersensitivities and aesthetic deficits. Secondly, depending on the type of bariatric surgery, pronounced postoperative metabolic and nutritional changes can be observed which also might influence oral health. Aim of this study is to analyze the prevalence and severity of erosive tooth wear, dental caries and periodontal diseases of obese patients who underwent bariatric surgery in comparison to obese patients without bariatric procedures.