Periodontal Disease & Cardio/Cerebrovascular Disease: Redefining Our Roles Part 1

Does periodontal disease really increase the risk of heart attack and stroke? Since Mattila and colleagues’ groundbreaking research appeared in 1989, there has been a plethora of investigations of the possibility that periodontal disease might increase the risk for heart disease and stroke, with an abundance of publications about this subject in many prestigious medical journals. Theories on the biological mechanisms by which periodontal disease could cause systemic inflammation, promote atherogeneis, and increase the risk for myocardial infarction and stroke have well-founded evidence bases. Although short-term studies suggest that treatment of periodontal disease can reduce systemic inflammation and improve endothelial dysfunction, evidence that periodontal treatment may directly prevent heart attacks and stroke is lacking. So what are dentists and dental hygienists to do with this inconsistent information?

This course helps oral healthcare professionals to make sense of this research and consensus opinions. The program empowers participants to incorporate the latest evidence on the relationship of periodontal and heart disease and stroke, screen patients to identify those who may be at risk for CVD, and build collaborative relationships with non-dental healthcare providers to increase point-of-care screening and cross referral of patients at risk for CVD and periodontal disease. During the final hour of the program, participants will have the opportunity to weigh in on how they would manage various cases associated with periodontal-systemic risk.