Effect of oral health behaviors as risk factors for cardio-cerebrovascular diseases

Abstract

Objectives: Cardio-cerebrovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death in advanced countries due to their upward-trending incidence rates. Preventing CVDs is imperative to ensure a healthy elderly life and prepare for an aging society. Considering the relationship between oral health and systemic health, effective oral health management will have an important role in preventing CVDs. This study aimed to examine the influence of oral health behaviors as risk factors for CVDs. Methods: A custom database combining data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service and the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2010 to 2017 was analyzed. The study included participants aged 35 or over (n=14,492) with recorded responses on oral health behaviors. Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between oral health behaviors and CVDs. Results: The CVDs group was shown to practice inappropriate oral health management. In comparison to the non-CVDs group, the CVDs group showed a significantly higher rate of 8.0% in 'once or less' of toothbrushing frequency (P<0.001). Moreover, the percentage of individuals who did not use oral hygiene supplements was 13.8% higher (P<0.001). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the 'use of dental floss and/or interdental brush' was associated with a 16% lower risk for CVDs (P<0.05). Additionally, 'twice' and 'three or more' of toothbrushing frequency were associated with a 19% and 23% lower risk for CVDs, respectively (P<0.05). Conclusions:The frequency of daily toothbrushing and the utilization of dental floss or interdental brush were significantly associated with CVDs. Therefore, there is a need to consistently emphasize the relationship between oral health and systemic diseases, along with the importance of oral hygiene management.