A new study from Germany suggests that severe gum disease may be associated with declining kidney function and the early stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD), highlighting the importance of oral health beyond the mouth.

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Study Examined More Than 6,000 Participants Strong Association Found Between Gum Disease and Kidney Function Chronic Inflammation May Play a Role

Researchers found that people with advanced periodontitis were significantly more likely to show signs of impaired kidney function than those with healthy gums. The findings add to growing evidence linking oral health with broader systemic diseases.

Study Examined More Than 6,000 Participants

The research was led by Dr. Christian Schmidt-Lauber and Professor Ghazal Arabi at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf. The team analyzed medical data from 6,179 participants.

Researchers assessed gum health through detailed dental examinations and evaluated kidney function using biomarkers, including estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR). They also measured inflammatory markers such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6).

Strong Association Found Between Gum Disease and Kidney Function

According to the study, approximately 14% of people with healthy kidney function had severe periodontitis. Among participants with impaired kidney function, the rate increased to about 36%.

The association remained significant even after accounting for factors such as age, sex, diabetes and smoking, suggesting the relationship could not be explained solely by shared risk factors.

Chronic Inflammation May Play a Role

Researchers said long-term inflammation caused by periodontitis may contribute to kidney damage by affecting blood vessels and other biological processes. They noted that bacterial spread through the bloodstream, oxidative stress, vascular dysfunction and metabolic changes could also play a role.

Experts emphasized that chronic kidney disease often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. They said maintaining good oral hygiene and seeking timely treatment for gum disease may help improve overall health and support the early detection of kidney problems.

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