Impact of Periodontal Inflammation on Allostatic Load

Periodontitis is a prevalent global health issue that contributes to systemic inflammation and is closely linked to stress as a risk factor. Both conditions have been investigated for bidirectional relationship. However, the results are inconsistent, and the mechanistic links remain unclear. Allostatic load, which measures the cumulative biological effects of stress, may be relevant in elucidating this connection. Inconsistent results have been reported in previous studies exploring the association between periodontitis and individual biomarkers of allostatic load. Furthermore, none of these studies has taken into consideration staging and grading of periodontitis. Additionally, while periodontal treatment has been shown to reduce both local and systemic inflammation, its effect on allostatic load remains unexplored till date. This study aims to fill these gaps by evaluating the relationship between these parameters of periodontitis and allostatic load. Evaluation of impact of subgingival instrumentation on allostatic load may further provide insights into the broader systemic benefits of periodontal interventions.