PERIODONTAL
DISEASE AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
HEART DISEASE
Several studies have shown that periodontal
disease is associated with heart disease. While a cause-and-effect relationship
has not yet been proven, research has indicated that periodontal disease
increases the risk of heart disease.
Scientists believe that inflammation caused by
periodontal disease may be responsible for the association.
Periodontal disease can also exacerbate existing
heart conditions. Patients at risk for infective endocarditis may require
antibiotics prior to dental procedures. Your dentist/periodontist and
cardiologist will be able to determine if your heart condition requires use of
antibiotics prior to dental procedures.
STROKE
Additional studies have pointed to a
relationship between periodontal disease and stroke. In one study that looked
at the causal relationship of oral infection as a risk factor for stroke,
people diagnosed with acute cerebrovascular ischemia were found more likely to
have an oral infection when compared to those in the control group.
Perio.org
