Periodontal Disease and Infertility: Probing the Depths of This Potential Connection.

Infertility is a complex condition affecting both males and females. While the contributing causes are known to be multifactorial, the prevalence of infertility continues to rise. Recent research explores the potential relationship of periodontal disease and infertility. Periodontal disease, one of the most common oral diseases and the leading cause of tooth loss, is a low-grade, chronic infection leading to host inflammatory activation and, ultimately, destruction of oral hard and soft tissues. Periodontal disease has been associated with systemic inflammation and common chronic inflammatory diseases and conditions, including diabetes mellitus, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases. This article reviews current evidence underscoring the association between periodontal disease and infertility, the proposed mechanisms of action of these associations, and implications for clinical practice. Focus on the relationship between oral and reproductive health highlights the importance of interprofessional, patient-centered treatment to provide comprehensive, whole-person healthcare to promote optimal overall wellness.