The effects of dental disease on systemic disease.
Chronic exposure to periodontal pathogens results in the continued stimulation of an immune and nonimmune response by the host. The cytokines and other inflammatory mediators produced in gingivitis/periodontitis result in local tissue destruction and may reach significant levels affecting the cardiovascular system or placental tissues. The oral cavity may also serve as a direct reservoir for bacterial contamination of the lungs with subsequent development of bacterial pneumonia.
Department of Clinical Sciences, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Kansas State University, Manhattan, USA.
L J
LJ
DeBowes
D000818:Animals; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000276:immunology; D002371:Cat Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000276:immunology; D002415:Cats; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000276:immunology; D004285:Dogs; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007230:Infant, Low Birth Weight; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008070:Lipopolysaccharides / Q000378:metabolism; D007752:Obstetric Labor, Premature / Q000209:etiology / Q000276:immunology; D010510:Periodontal Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000276:immunology; D018410:Pneumonia, Bacterial / Q000209:etiology* / Q000276:immunology; D011247:Pregnancy; D011251:Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / Q000276:immunology; D012307:Risk Factors
D008070:Lipopolysaccharides