Postoperative Weight Loss Masks Metabolic Impacts of Periodontitis in Obese Rodents

Background: Postoperative weight loss (POWL) is expected to occur in combined models of obesity and periodontitis. This study explores the confounding effects of POWL on the impact of ligation‐induced periodontitis on glucose and lipid metabolism in obese animals. Methods: Combined mouse models of diet‐induced obesity (DIO) and ligation‐induced periodontitis (5‐ or 10‐day ligation) were studied. Fasting serum glucose (FSG), fasting insulin (Fins), and lipids including triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low‐ and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC), were detected via biochemistry and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. POWL and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) were calculated. Analysis of covariance was performed to identify confounding effects of POWL. Results: The obesity, periodontitis, and 10‐day groups exhibited greater POWL than corresponding controls (P