Cholesterol Metabolism and Oral Health: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Background: This integrative review associated changes in cholesterol metabolism and oral diseases. Conditions such as periodontal disease, tooth loss and oral cancer may be influenced by imbalances in lipid levels through mechanisms involving inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune modulation. Highlight: This review examined scientific studies published mainly in the last decade. The findings indicate consistent associations between hypercholesterolemia or hyperlipidemia and periodontal disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular conditions, peri-implant health, and tooth loss. Hypocholesterolemia was associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma. Periodontal disease was the most frequently investigated oral condition, representing almost half of the included studies. Conclusion: Elevated levels of LDL cholesterol appear to increase the severity of periodontal diseases, while reduced lipid levels may serve as indicators of oral cancer. Although evidence supports a bidirectional relationship between lipid metabolism disorders and oral conditions, these interactions are complex and influenced by diet, systemic health, and oxidative stress.