From the Research
Yes, gingivitis can cause elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in the blood. Gingivitis is an inflammatory condition of the gums that occurs when bacteria in dental plaque trigger an immune response, leading to redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gingival tissues. This localized inflammation can release inflammatory mediators such as interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha into the bloodstream, which then stimulate the liver to produce CRP as part of the acute phase response. CRP is a sensitive marker of systemic inflammation, and even mild to moderate gum inflammation can contribute to measurable increases in serum CRP levels.
Key Findings
- A study published in 2017 1 found that gingivitis was significantly associated with elevated high-sensitivity CRP values in 15-year-olds, highlighting the potential impact of gingivitis on systemic inflammation from an early age.
- Another study from 2013 2 demonstrated that the mean salivary CRP levels were higher in patients with gingivitis compared to healthy subjects, although the difference was not as significant as that between periodontitis patients and healthy subjects.
- The relationship between oral health and systemic inflammation is bidirectional, with more severe forms of gum disease like periodontitis causing even greater elevations in CRP, as shown in a study from 2011 3.
Clinical Implications
- Treating gingivitis through proper oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings, can help reduce gum inflammation and subsequently lower CRP levels.
- The connection between oral and systemic health highlights the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene as part of overall health management, potentially reducing the risk of systemic diseases associated with chronic inflammation.
- A study from 2014 4 found that scaling and root planing significantly improved periodontal health parameters and reduced CRP levels in both gingival crevicular fluid and serum in chronic periodontitis patients, with or without diabetes mellitus, further emphasizing the impact of periodontal therapy on systemic inflammation.