New research has looked at a potential connection between dental cavities and kidney problems. The kidneys are a critical organ, so avoiding problems in this area is important. A cavity-causing bacteria called streptococcus mutans appears to play a key role in the connection. The results further underline the link between oral and physical health.
A new study has found a potential connection between dental cavities and renal lesions – which is a concerning link [1].
Renal lesions refer to problems affecting the kidneys, which are a key organ in the human body. Cavities develop following advanced tooth decay.
The findings highlight the link between oral and physical health, and act as a reminder of the importance of looking after our oral health.
Background
The research looks at the link between cavities and renal lesions. IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is an immune response disease which affects the filtering units of the kidneys – which is a key function of this critical organ.
The kidneys act as a filtering system in the human body, which helps to remove excess and unneeded fluids from the bloodstream.
However, when the kidney’s filtering units – called glomeruli – become inflamed, the immune system responds – which is what IgAN is [1].
Dental cavities result from advanced tooth decay, which itself is caused by acid and bacteria in the mouth. When cavities develop, a filling is required to restore the area to good health.
The Research
The research was carried out by a team of researchers from Okayama University in Japan. Their findings have been published in the Communications Biology journal [1].
As discussed, the researchers were interested in the process of IgA neuropathy. The researchers pointed out that existing research exists to link IgAN with streptococcus mutans – which is a dental cavity-causing bacterial pathogen [2].
The process of IgAN results in a complex progression of problems, which results in around 30-40% of patients developing terminal kidney failure [1]. Therefore, the researchers wanted to investigate this topic further, as it could save lives.
The researchers stated that they did not know the pathogens involved in this. However, they believe that the pathogen enters the body through invasive dental procedures [1].
To find this out, the team injected a strain of protein with streptococcus mutants from the oral cavity of a patient with severe IgAN, with other proteins, into rats [1].
The researchers then waited to see how the rats responded, with a focus on the clinical features of IgAN – including the renal function of the rodents [1]. This would help the team to see if there was a link.
Then, the researchers evaluated tissue sections of kidneys from the rats. They found that these kidney tissues showed signs of severe IgAN, underlining the link [1].
Moreover, a secondary finding of the research related to dental plaque. The researchers mentioned that streptococcus mutans expressing a surface collagen-binding protein (Cnm) is more common in patients with IgAN, compared to those without [1].
The researchers discovered that Cnm is found in dental plaque, and could be transported through invasive dental procedures [1]. This is an added concern.
Linking these two areas together, the researchers found that the Cnm protein may have a role in developing IgAN [1].
Author comments
The findings certainly suggest that a link between dental cavities and kidney problems exist. This is rather concerning, but acts as a reminder that dental health is crucial.
Lead researcher Dr. Shuhei Naka commented on the findings. Naka said that “until now, oral pathogens and kidney disease have been studied independently” [3].
However, this collaboration “between clinicians and researchers in oral pathogens and kidney diseases” has yielded enhanced findings in the subject area, according to Naka [3].
The authors suggested that the condition of the kidneys could be improved by reducing cavity-causing bacteria. They suggested that this could be achieved through a preventive approach in dentistry towards patients with IgAN [1].
Patients with IgAN therefore may need to take extra care with their oral health. It would also be advisable for dental professionals to be made aware in cases where their patient has IgAN.
Thinking points…
[1] This research underlines the importance of looking after our oral health, especially given its connection with our overall physical health. A helpful way of keeping your oral health strong is to attend regular dental check-ups. Check-ups allow a dentist to take a thorough look at your oral health, including both the teeth and gums. If any problems are identified, treatment can be planned. We recommend booking an appointment now!
[2] This research also shows the impact that bacteria in the mouth can have. While not all bacteria is bad, there are easy ways of avoiding bacteria entering the mouth. For example, not placing pens, nails or any other object in your mouth, living in a clean space, washing hands regularly, and preparing food hygienically – are all practical ways of helping. Making small changes can have a big impact!
What we offer at Taradale Dental
Taradale Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. At our Calgary dental clinic, we provide a range of services for our patients.
We advise our patients to attend our Calgary dental clinic at least twice per year for a regular dental check-up. At these check-ups, we provide a comprehensive review of a patient’s oral health. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For example, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To strengthen your oral health, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly.
Here at Taradale Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, teeth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.
Moreover, the fees of our treatments at our Calgary dental clinic Taradale Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This ensures transparent and fair pricing, with no hidden costs.
We hope to see you soon at our Taradale Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://taradaledental.ca/!
References
[1] Naka, S., Matsuoka, D., Misaki, T., Nagasawa, Y., Ito, S., Nomura, R., Nakano, K., & Matsumoto-Nakana, M. (2024). Contribution of collagen-binding protein Cnm of Streptococcus mutans to induced IgA nephropathy-like nephritis in rats. Communications Biology. 1141. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s42003-024-06826-x.
[2] Naka, S., Wato, K., Misaki, T., Ito, S., Nagasawa, Y., Nomura, R., Matsumoto-Nakano, M., & Nakano, K. (2020). Intravenous administration of Streptococcus mutans induces IgA nephropathy-like lesions. Clinical and Experimental Nephrology. 9 (12): p1122-1131. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10157-020-01961-1.
[3] Okayama University. (2024). Surface protein study highlights a potential link between dental caries and renal lesions. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-12-surface-protein-highlights-potential-link.html. Last accessed: 6th December 2024.
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