To investigate the association of oral health and Meniere’s disease, a nationwide population-based longitudinal study was conducted, using data from the National Health Insurance Database of the Korean National Health Insurance Service. The analysis included 2.24 million adults who underwent oral health screening in 2003. During a median follow-up of 16.7 years, 5% of participants developed Meniere’s disease.
Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that causes severe dizziness (vertigo), ringing in the ears (tinnitus), hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness or congestion in the ear. Although there is a high prevalence of Meniere’s disease, the causes, related factors, and mechanisms are not well-known, though one suggested factor is systemic inflammation. Previous studies have found poor oral hygiene and periodontitis are associated with systemic inflammation. Furthermore, inflammation caused by oral infection produces pro-inflammatory cytokines, which in turn play a role in the development of Meniere’s disease.
The study found poor oral health, characterized by the presence of periodontitis and multiple tooth loss, was associated with an increased risk of Meniere’s disease. More frequent tooth brushing showed a negative correlation with Meniere’s disease. Those who brushed more than three times per day had a decreased risk of developing the disease compared to those who brushed less than once per day. Participants who underwent dental scaling within one year showed a significantly decreased risk of Meniere’s disease.
The authors concluded oral health management, including frequent tooth brushing and professional dental scaling, were associated with a decreased risk of Meniere’s disease. Additionally, poor oral health may increase the incidence of Meniere’s disease.
