Evaluation of the Association Between Periodontal Disease and Obesity in Adolescents from Puerto Rico: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Adolescent obesity is a growing public health problem globally and is associated with multiple systemic and oral health consequences. Purpose: To estimate the prevalence of obesity and gingivitis in a sample of Puerto Rican adolescents, as well as to evaluate the possible association between both conditions. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 185 adolescents aged 13 to 20 years from five secondary schools. Each participant underwent a standardized dental examination to determine the presence of gingivitis by measuring periodontal probing depth and bleeding on probing, following NIDCR criteria. Body mass index was classified according to CDC guidelines. Statistical analyses included Pearson's chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests, as well as multivariable generalized linear regression models. Results: The sample was predominantly female (61%), with a mean age of 15.7 years. Most participants had a healthy weight (48.7%), while 30.8% were classified as obese. After adjusting for age and sex, overweight and obesity were not significantly associated with bleeding on probing in ≥10% of sites (p = 0.25). However, overweight or obese adolescents were significantly more likely to have periodontal pockets ≥4 mm (OR = 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1–4.0, p = 0.03). Conclusion: No association was identified between obesity and gingivitis. Overweight and obesity were associated with early signs of periodontal disease.