The link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease is probably inflammation.
A periodontal-cardiovascular relationship has been postulated for several years but a definitive etiologic relationship has not been established. However, evidence continues to accumulate epidemiologic and otherwise that periodontitis at the very least plays a contributory role in the progression of cardiovascular disease. This paper will argue if indeed such a causative relationship exists, it is most likely based on the incremental contribution of chronic periodontal inflammation on systemic inflammation rather than the direct colonization of atherosclerotic plaques with periodontal pathogens.
Davé
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S
Private Practice Periodontics, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. 3L1.sheilesh@mac.com
Van Dyke
Te
T
D000818:Animals; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000276:immunology*; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000150:complications* / Q000276:immunology; D010510:Periodontal Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000276:immunology*; D011817:Rabbits