The relationship between periodontal disease attributes and Helicobacter pylori infection among adults in the United States

Objectives. We investigated the relationship between Helicobacter pylori infection and abnormal periodontal conditions. Methods. Data from the first phase of the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used. A total of 4504 participants aged 20 to 59 years who completed a periodontal examination and tested positive for H. pylori antibodies were examined. Results. Periodontal pockets with a depth of 5 mm or more were associated with increased odds of H. pylori seropositivity (odds ratio [OR]= 1.47; 95% confidence interval [Cl] 1.12, 1.94) after adjustment for sociodemographic factors. This association is comparable to the independent effects of poverty on H. pylori (OR= 1.54; 95% Cl = 1.10, 2.16). Conclusions. Poor periodontal health, characterized by advanced periodontal pockets, may be associated with H. pylori infection in adults, independent of poverty status.