Periodontitis and cardiovascular disease.
Periodontal medicine has been studied and reviewed extensively since its introduction to the dental fraternity. The association of periodontal disease with and its effects on the cardiovascular system are amongst the many topics explored. A summary of the research into these associations and the possible mechanisms of any relationship is presented. Although a link between these two chronic inflammatory diseases is evident, the very heterogeneity of the relevant studies has not provided evidence sufficient to support an actual causal relationship. More stringent epidemiologic and intervention studies are required.
Division of Oral Medicine and Periodontics, University of the Western Cape. ajeftha@uwc.ac.za
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Holmes
D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000276:immunology; D017281:Cost of Illness; D018450:Disease Progression; D006801:Humans; D018836:Inflammation Mediators / Q000276:immunology; D010518:Periodontitis / Q000150:complications* / Q000382:microbiology; D012307:Risk Factors
D018836:Inflammation Mediators