Association between plasma trans fatty acids and chronic periodontitis: Results from a nationally representative cross‐sectional survey

Abstract Background Trans fatty acid (TFA) consumption has been reported to harbor proinflammatory characteristics and increasing oxidative stress properties, but there has been little research into its association with periodontitis. This study aimed to explore the potential association between TFAs and periodontitis. Methods This large population‐based study included participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2009‒2010). Weighted binary and ordinal logistic regressions were used to calculate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to evaluate the relationship between plasma TFAs and periodontitis. Results A total of 1433 eligible participants, 793 (55.3%) participants with periodontitis and 640 (44.7%) without periodontitis were included. Univariate logistic regression revealed significant associations between plasma trans‐11‐octadecenoic acid, trans‐9‐octadecenoic acid, the sum of trans‐octadecenoic acids, and the sum of TFAs and periodontitis (all P < 0.01). After controlling for the potential confounders, these four types of TFAs remained significantly associated with periodontitis (the ORs and 95% CIs per interquartile range increase were 1.16 (1.01–1.33), 1.20 (1.03–1.39), 1.18 (1.02–1.35), and 1.17 (1.01–1.35), respectively). Notably, these positive associations were more pronounced among overweight/obese populations. Additionally, plasma trans‐9‐octadecenoic acid levels were found to be associated with periodontitis severity. Conclusions This study suggests a significant positive association between certain plasma TFAs and chronic periodontitis, especially among overweight/obese populations. These findings provide new insights into periodontitis prevention from a dietary perspective.