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Cardiovascular health

The Spanish Society of Cardiology (SEC) and the Spanish Society of Periodontology and Osseointegration (SEPA) have drafted a report, which we summarize here so you can stay up-to-date on the most important measures regarding your cardiovascular health and its relationship with the oral cavity.

It has been observed in different studies, a correlation between the heart disease and the gum disease.Therefore, we studied whether treating periodontal disease could reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Although there is a lack of evidence to confirm this, the available evidence supports the existence of a causal relationship between the two conditions. This relationship is independent of aspects that could be considered confounding factors, such as the fact that these conditions share common etiological factors and the high prevalence of both.

Scientific and professional organizations have recognized the impact of the relationship between periodontal disease and acute myocardial infarction and the need to undertake actions to prevent both pathologies. These actions must involve cardiologists and dentists alike, who must develop joint action protocols to achieve this goal.

From this common document between cardiologists and dentists, the following are collected four recommendations specific to cardiovascular disease:

1

Physicians should be aware that Periodontitis is a risk factor to develop atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and should counsel patients about the risk of periodontal inflammation to general health as well as oral health.

2

Periodontal patients with other risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, such as hypertension, overweight/obesity, smoking, etc., who have not visited a physician in the previous year, should be referred to a medical examination.

3

Modifiable, lifestyle-related risk factors for periodontitis and cardiovascular disease should be addressed in the dental office and in the context of the comprehensive periodontal therapyi.e. smoking cessation programs and advice on lifestyle modifications (diet and exercise)

4

Treatment of periodontitis in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease requires follow elective procedures according to the guidelines of the American Heart Association (AHA)

Ischemic cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and periodontitis share common risk factors, but they can also exacerbate each other. Therefore, it is necessary to jointly address prevention and treatment measures, in the hope that this will improve overall and oral health.

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