The Link between Cardiovascular Disease and Periodontal Disease: A Literature Review

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, one half of people over the age of thirty, approximately 64.7 million Americans, have periodontal disease. The purpose of this literature review is to
examine existing studies that document a link between cardiovascular disease and periodontal disease in order to determine if the connection extends beyond shared risk factors. To further support the relationship of the heart and oral environment, research was reviewed to
determine if the treatment and subsequent improvement of periodontal status would improve cardiovascular health. Research supports the relationship between the two conditions, although there is no evidence that has established a causal connection. Patients with periodontal disease
have higher serum levels of inflammatory markers implicated in cardiovascular disease as compared to patients who are periodontally healthy. Elevated salivary amounts of periodontal pathogens have been found in patients with coronary artery disease when compared to patients
without cardiovascular concerns. Nonsurgical treatment of periodontal disease has been shown to decrease the amount of inflammatory markers circulating in the bloodstream and to reduce the thickness of the coronary arteries. The systemic improvement from periodontal therapy is not permanent and supports the current standard of care, calling for long-term interventions. The established link between systemic and oral health adds urgency to the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and maintenance of periodontal disease.