The Correlation between Periodontal disease and Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is characterised as a systemic condition that causes the kidney to gradually lose its function over time. My research project is mainly about the correlation with the progression of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and the decline of oral health. Findings and information are supported by the article “Comparative evaluation of oral health status of chronic kidney disease patients in various stages and healthy controls” by Tadakamadla, Jyothi.
As the article stated, patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) show the highest probability of having periodontal disease. Patients with ESKD are on dialysis and are in need of a kidney transplant, making it more difficult for them to maintain proper oral hygiene. This is due to decrease of salivary flow and tissue irritation from high levels of salivary urea. A prevalent condition for ESRD patients is gingival enlargement, which is a side effect of the medications taken by kidney transplantation patients.
By doing this research project, I as a hygienist will have more information to educate the CKD patient about the effects in the mouth and the side effects of the medications. To better instruct patients to perform appropriate home care as they are more vulnerable to periodontal disease.
