The Association Between Periodontal Disease and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease is Linked to Metabolic Disorders

Purpose of Review Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is recognized as the most common cause of chronic liver disease. NAFLD regularly coexists with metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes. Periodontal disease is associated with metabolic disorders. Both diseases have overlapping risk factors; hence, periodontal disease may be associated with NAFLD. This review discusses the reciprocal associations between periodontal disease, NAFLD, and metabolic disorders. Recent Findings Numerous cross-sectional studies have reported an association between periodontal disease and NAFLD. Limited prospective evidence suggests that periodontal disease is a predictor of NAFLD. Furthermore, periodontal disease is associated with the fibrotic progression of NAFLD. Several studies have indicated that metabolic disorders enhance the association between periodontal disease and NAFLD. Summary Periodontal disease could exacerbate NAFLD in coexisting metabolic disorders with a source of systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. Additional prospective studies on periodontal disease, NAFLD, and metabolic disorders are required to better understand the potential causative mechanisms.