Comparative Assessment of the Periodontal Findings in Child Subjects With a Normal Body Mass Index and in Obese Subjects

Background: Obesity in children is a concerning issue affecting a large population globally. Obesity and overweight are risk factors for various medical conditions, including periodontal diseases, hypertension, cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, and/or diabetes. Aim: The study aimed to comparatively assess the periodontal findings in child subjects with a normal BMI and in obese subjects. Methods: The present observational study aimed to comparatively assess 216 school-going child subjects that were divided into two groups: non-obese (BMI<25) and obese, with BMI≥25 having equal gender distribution. In both groups, clinical attachment loss (CAL), probing depth (PD), and bleeding on probing (BOP) were assessed along with a questionnaire on oral hygiene and dietary habits. The data gathered were statistically analysed. Results: The study results showed that in obese subjects, significantly higher values were seen for probing depth, bleeding on probing, and plaque index compared to non-obese subjects with p<0.05. However, no significant difference was noted in the CAL of obese and non-obese subjects (p>0.05). Conclusion: The periodontal status is compromised in obese subjects with higher values of probing depth, bleeding on probing, and plaque index compared to child subjects with normal weight. The level of CAL does not differ significantly between obese and non-obese child subjects.