Exploring the Oral–Ocular Axis: An Observational Study on the Association between Chronic Periodontitis and Visual disturbances

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic periodontitis is a biofilm-associated, host-mediated inflammatory condition that damages tooth-supporting tissues and can exert systemic effects. Growing evidence indicates a link between periodontal inflammation and ocular diseases through systemic inflammation, bacteremia, and microvascular dysfunction. However, the impact of chronic periodontitis on visual function, particularly visual acuity, remains unclear.

Objectives: To assess the association between chronic generalized periodontitis and visual disturbances by comparing visual acuity in affected patients and periodontally healthy individuals.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 80 participants (30–50 years), including 40 systemically healthy controls and 40 patients with chronic generalized periodontitis. Periodontal parameters-Plaque Index, Gingival Index, Probing Pocket Depth, and Clinical Attachment Level were recorded. Visual acuity was evaluated using Snellen’s chart and converted to LogMAR units. Data were analyzed using chi-square, independent t-tests, and Pearson’s correlation.

Results: Participants with periodontitis showed significantly reduced visual acuity compared to controls (p < 0.01). Mean LogMAR values and periodontal parameters were positively correlated, indicating that greater periodontal destruction was associated with poorer visual performance.

Conclusions: Patients with chronic generalized periodontitis exhibited significantly reduced visual acuity compared to periodontally healthy individuals, with deterioration correlating with greater periodontal destruction. These findings suggest a potential oral–ocular axis mediated by chronic inflammation and microvascular impairment. Future longitudinal and interventional studies are warranted to confirm causality and to evaluate whether periodontal therapy may improve or preserve visual function.