Japanese researchers have conducted a study which has found a link between HIV and gum disease. The study claims that gum disease produces an acid in the mouth which can favor the progression of HIV.
This study will be published in the March issue of “Journal of Immunology”. This is the first time a link between HIV and gum disease has been discovered. Previous studies have established a deep link between gum disease and heart disease and diabetes.
Butyric acid which is produced by bacteria that cause gum disease hinders an enzyme named HDAC-which plays an important role in stopping the progression of HIV. Advanced gum disease could possibly lead to the development of AIDS among HIV positive people although that mainly depends on individual strength. The researchers intend to use animal testing to confirm these findings.
This finding has come as a surprise to many dentists. However, this study cannot be trusted blindly before further experiments are conducted and substantial evidence obtained to support this.