Dual effect of statin medication on the periodontium.

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between statin medication and periodontal infection in an adult population.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was based on a subpopulation of the Health 2000 Survey, which included dentate non-diabetic, non-rheumatic subjects who did not smoke, aged 40-69 years (n=2032). The main outcome variable was the number of teeth with periodontal pockets of 4 mm or more. Statin medication was categorized in two ways: firstly, subjects with statin medication of some sort (n=134) versus those with none, and secondly, subjects taking either simvastatin (n=58), atorvastatin (n=38), some other statin (n=38) or no statin medication. Relative risks (RR) were estimated using negative binomial and Poisson regression models.

RESULTS

We found a weak negative association between statin medication and periodontal infection among subjects with dental plaque or gingival bleeding. Among subjects with no gingival bleeding, statin medication was found to be associated with an increased likelihood of having deepened periodontal pockets.

CONCLUSION

Statin medication appears to have an effect on the periodontium that is dependent on the inflammatory condition of the periodontium. More evidence is needed to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the effects of statins.