Chronic Kidney Disease and Oral Health: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: This pilot study investigated the association between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and oral health, focusing on the prevalence and severity of periodontal disease (PD) in the different CKD stages. Moreover, we explored how systemic alterations related to kidney dysfunction may influence oral conditions. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on seventy-five adult CKD patients (stages G1–G5) under conservative therapy. Participants underwent clinical, biochemical, and dental assessments. Periodontal parameters, such as the plaque index, bleeding on probing, clinical attachment loss, and gingival recession, were evaluated. Results: A significant inverse relationship was found between the estimated glomerular filtration rate (e-GFR) and PD severity, plaque index, and gingival inflammation. Advanced CKD patients exhibited a higher prevalence of generalized gingivitis and more severe PD stages and grades. Patients with e-GFR below 44 mL/min/1.73 m2 had a 3.3-fold higher risk of developing PD. In our population, the prevalence of xerostomia and dysgeusia was 45% and 15%, respectively, with taste alteration correlating directly with declining kidney function. Conclusions: CKD patients demonstrate compromised oral health, with an increased risk of PD. Renal dysfunction appears to be a significant factor influencing the onset and progression of PD. Further studies are necessary to clarify the underlying mechanisms and to develop integrated management strategies.