Periodontal Disease And Systemic Disease
There is strong clinical evidence of the correlation between periodontal disease and coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease, osteoporosis and pregnancy problems. Periodontal disease is proven to elevate C Reactive Protein and other inflammatory mediators in the blood stream. These chemicals especially C Reactive Protein have been found to be primary risk factors contributing to coronary artery disease.
The increase in inflammatory mediators in the circulatory blood stream are believed to affect these other disease processes. Clinical evidence indicates that periodontal disease and oral disease contributes significantly to elevation of C Reactive Protein. A recent study in Belgium (Professor E.H. Rompen, J Perio 10/2004) showed that more than 90% of patients with cardiac disease suffer from moderate to advanced periodontitis. In the non cardiac population, 66% suffer from moderate to advanced periodontitis.
Cardiologists recommend using all modalities to lower serum CRP, this includes seeing a periodontist. Dr. Jutkowitz is very familiar with the literature and will be happy to answer any questions.
