A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Association Between Periodontitis and Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Potential for Personalized Approach

Background/Objectives: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to systemic low-grade inflammation. Systemic low-grade inflammation has been found in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we evaluated the association between periodontitis and AMD. Methods: We searched 11 scientific literature databases on 16th December 2024 for studies of a diagnosis of periodontitis and prevalent or incident AMD. Eligible studies underwent a qualitative review and meta-analysis of the association. Study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias within studies were made in duplicate by two authors and conferred with a senior author. Results: Seven studies eligible for review included in total 149,217 individuals. Across the seven studies, different study designs, diagnoses and definitions of periodontitis, and diagnosis and definitions of AMD were employed. Our meta-analysis showed an association between periodontitis and AMD with an odds ratio of 1.42 (95% CI: 1.12 to 1.78; p = 0.003). Conclusions: Periodontitis is significantly associated with AMD. Unlike genetic predisposition and high age, which are important risk factors of AMD that cannot be modified, periodontitis is a risk factor that can be treated and potentially eliminated, thus allowing for a personalized approach for risk elimination in AMD. Attention should be given to the dental health of patients at risk of AMD.