The association between concurrent oral cancer and periodontal disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

This article systematically reviews and meta-analyzes the association between periodontal disease and concurrent oral cancer, focusing on case-control studies involving adults. Analyzing 18 studies with 31,504 participants from 13 regions, the meta-analysis found that patients with periodontal disease have a significantly higher odds ratio (OR) of developing oral cancer (adjusted OR 2.32; 95% CI 1.71–3.15) compared to those without periodontal disease. The strength of this association varies depending on periodontal disease diagnostic criteria, with clinical attachment loss and alveolar bone loss measures (consistent with the American Academy of Periodontology definitions) showing higher ORs than tooth loss-based assessments. The review highlights potential biological links involving periodontal pathogens and systemic inflammation, and it calls for integrated interdisciplinary clinical care strategies to improve screening, prevention, and management for patients affected by both conditions.