Periodontitis and coronary artery disease: a questioned association between periodontal and vascular plaques.

摘要: Periodontitis is a bacterially-induced, localized chronic inflammatory disease destroying both the connective tissue and supporting bone of teeth. In general population, severe forms demonstrate prevalence almost 5%, whereas initial epidemiological evidence suggests an association between periodontitis coronary artery (CAD). Both infectious nature yet etiologically unconfirmed hypothesis CAD, question their potential association. Ephemeral bacteremia, systemic inflammation immune-pathological reactions constitute triad mechanisms cross-talk periodontal vascular damage. To which extent each these periodontitis-mediated components contribute to damage still remains uncertain. More than twenty years from association, positive weight alive but rather debated, because presence many uncontrolled confounding factors different assessment disease. From clinical point view, advising prevention or treatment targeting on CAD it unjustified. By contrast, oral hygiene including health might overall well-being healthy lifestyle hence as at least partially cardiovascular prevention.