Periodontal Health and Systemic C-Reactive Protein in Postmenopausal Women: A Review

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that has been increasingly associated with systemic inflammation, as indicated by elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Postmenopausal women are particularly susceptible due to estrogen deficiency–related alterations in bone metabolism, immune regulation, and inflammatory responses. Available evidence indicates that postmenopausal women exhibit a higher prevalence and greater severity of periodontal disease, often accompanied by increased CRP or high-sensitivity CRP levels, suggesting an enhanced systemic inflammatory burden. Estrogen deficiency contributes to alveolar bone loss and increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, while chronic periodontal infection acts as a persistent inflammatory stimulus, together promoting elevated CRP synthesis. Factors such as body mass index, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and hormone replacement therapy may modify this association. Overall, the literature supports a significant relationship between periodontal status and CRP levels in postmenopausal women, underscoring the importance of periodontal health in reducing systemic inflammation and related health risks.