RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Periodontal Assessment of a Bariatric Care Population

This study aims to understand how common and severe gum disease is in people who are significantly overweight and are considering weight-loss surgery in the UK. Researchers will also investigate signs of inflammation in saliva and explore if specific genetic factors linked to obesity might affect gum disease. Additionally, they will look at the types of bacteria found in the mouths of overweight individuals with gum disease. The goal is to gain a clearer picture of the relationship between obesity and gum health, which could help in developing better ways to manage dental care for this group.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Queen Mary University of London

Enrolment target

394

Start

31 Jan 2014

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2027

Bariatric Surgery Candidate Obesity

What is this study about?

This research study is looking into the connection between being very overweight (obesity) and gum disease. If you're considering weight-loss surgery, you might be asked to take part. The main goal is to find out how common and how serious gum disease is among people like you.

Beyond just looking at how common gum disease is, the researchers also want to understand some of the underlying reasons. They'll be checking your saliva for common signs of inflammation, which is a natural body response that can be linked to both obesity and gum problems. They'll also be investigating if certain genetic differences, particularly one called the FTO gene which is associated with obesity, might play a role in whether someone develops gum disease.

Finally, the study will examine the types of bacteria present in the mouths of participants with gum disease. By looking at all these factors together – the severity of gum disease, signs of inflammation, genetic influences, and the specific bacteria involved – the scientists hope to build a more complete picture of the link between obesity and oral health. This understanding could eventually help improve health advice and care for people who are very overweight.

Key takeaways

The study investigates the link between obesity and gum disease.
It aims to understand gum health in people considering weight-loss surgery.
Researchers will look at inflammation, genetics, and mouth bacteria.
Participation involves routine health checks, some extra dental exams, and sample collection.
It could help improve future care for people who are overweight.
You can withdraw from the study at any time.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be an adult, at least 18 years old, and have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. You must also agree in writing to take part. The study is specifically for people attending the UCLH bariatric clinic for weight-loss surgery discussions.

There are certain reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you're already involved in other research that uses antibiotics or new medications, or if you're pregnant. You also can't join if you've been taking certain medications that affect gum health (like phenytoin or cyclosporine) for two weeks or more in the last month, or if you've recently had chronic antibiotics.

Additionally, if you have certain health conditions like uncontrolled long-term illnesses, HIV, or Viral Hepatitis, you wouldn't be eligible. The study also cannot include people who have no natural teeth or those who are unable to provide their informed consent.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Is your Body Mass Index (BMI) 30 or higher?
Are you attending the UCLH weight-loss surgery clinic?
Are you not currently on certain medications that affect gum health?
Are you able to provide written agreement to participate?
Do you have natural teeth?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you agree to take part, the study will involve collecting some information from your routine medical check-ups, such as your age, gender, smoking habits, body composition, and ethnicity. A blood sample will also be taken for genetic analysis, unless suitable DNA information is already available from previous tests.

You will receive a basic gum health check, which is a standard part of dental assessment. If this check shows signs of more severe gum problems, you'll have a more detailed gum examination, including measuring any gaps around your teeth (known as periodontal probing depths). Samples of plaque from below your gum line and saliva will also be collected for analysis during these visits. The specific number of visits and the total duration aren't stated, but it's designed to fit in with your existing appointments at the UCLH bariatric clinic.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could help us learn more about the link between obesity and gum disease, which may lead to better care for people in the future. The risks involve routine procedures like blood tests, which might cause minor discomfort or bruising. The gum examinations are standard and generally well-tolerated. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your medical care.

Locations (4)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Barts Health NHS Trust Dental Hospital
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Centre for Oral Clinical Research (COCR)
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting
St Bartholomew's Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Luton and Dunstable University Hospital
Verified postcode
Luton, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'periodontal disease'?

Periodontal disease is the medical term for gum disease, which means inflammation and infection of the gums and the bone supporting your teeth.

What is a 'Bariatric Surgery Candidate'?

This refers to someone who is considering or being assessed for weight-loss surgery because they are significantly overweight.

Will taking part affect my weight-loss surgery plans?

No, taking part in this study will not affect your eligibility for weight-loss surgery or your usual medical care.

What happens to my samples?

Your blood, saliva, and plaque samples will be analysed to look for genetic information, signs of inflammation, and types of bacteria, helping researchers understand the links between obesity and gum health.

Do I have to do anything differently for this study?

No, you don't need to change your diet, exercise, or medication specifically for this study. It integrates with your routine care at the clinic.

How to find out more

Vandana Luthra, Dr.

bhnt.clinicaloralresearchcentre@nhs.net 02078826348 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.