Low-dose aspirin therapy and periodontal attachment loss in ex- and non-smokers

Aim of the study

The anti-inflammatory effects of aspirin-like drugs lie on their effect on the synthesis of prostaglandins via their action on cyclo-oxygenase which exists in two forms (Vane, 1971). Derivatives of aspirin are used extensively today to prevent inflammatory diseases and, in particular, coronary diseases. Smoking is associated with these diseases and is a major risk factor, as much for them as it is for periodontal diseases. The purpose of this study is to look for a possible influence of long term low-dose aspirin intake on periodontal inflammation in ex-smokers and non-smokers.

Materials and methods

The study population comprised 392 males over the age of 50. Subjects completed a medical history questionnaire, including whether they took low-dose aspirin (300 mg per day or less). Four groups were identified for the statistical analysis of the usual periodontal parameters (loss of attachment, inflammatory indices) : non-smokers + aspirin, ex-smokers + aspirin, non-smokers no aspirin, ex-smokers no aspirin.

Results

There was significantly less loss of attachment in those patients taking aspirin compared with the controls (2.6 ± 0.08 mm vs 2.9 ± 0.06 mm). There was more loss of attachment in ex-smokers compared with non-smokers (3.9 ± 0.07 mm vs 2.6 ± 0.08 mm).

Conclusion

Within the scope of this well-designed, controlled study, it seems that taking low-dose aspirin has a protective effect in relationship to periodontal attachment loss.

Commentaries

Prospective studies would be needed to prove the hypothesis that low-dose aspirin reduces the risk of periodontal clinical attachment.