Periodontitis is a chronic inflammation of the supporting tissues around the teeth and is associated with age-related diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. People with HIV have a higher risk of developing periodontitis and are more susceptible to age-related diseases.
This dissertation of Hester Groenewegen explores the complex relationship between periodontitis, HIV, immune activation, and age-related diseases. In Chapter 2, it was found that people with HIV had a significantly higher rate of severe periodontitis compared to the general population. Risk factors for this included HIV infection, older age, and being male. Chapter 3 investigated the link between periodontitis, immune system aging, and the risk of cardiovascular diseases in people with HIV. It showed that severe periodontitis may contribute to an increased tendency for blood clotting, indicating a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases. Chapter 4 revealed that people with HIV and severe periodontitis had higher levels of inflammation markers and specific bacteria, suggesting that treating periodontitis could improve not only oral health but also overall health. In Chapter 5, it was discovered that there was no significant link between periodontitis and low-level viremia (LLV) in people with HIV taking HIV medication. Chapter 6 examined the impact of full tooth extraction on heart and metabolic markers, but no significant improvement was found. Chapter 7 highlighted that online information about periodontitis for HIV patients is often unreliable.
The dissertation calls for further research and improved collaboration within healthcare to enhance the oral health of people with HIV and reduce stigma.
