The Periodontal-Systemic Connection: Current State-of-the-Art

Sunday Sessions, 2:30–5 p.m.

Program Track: Periodontal-Systemic Relationships

Moderator: Robert J. Genco

Speakers: Purnima Kumar, Thomas Van Dyke and Angelo Mariotti

This course will address the role of systemic inflammation in chronic diseases as well as the role of oral microbes in systemic conditions associated with periodontal disease, especially cardiovascular disease. The influences of the host genetic and environment factors on oral health, especially as they affect the oral microbiota, and the overall effects of these interactions on conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes will be discussed. Recent findings related to the effects of periodontal intervention on overall health care costs will be presented. Rationale for integrating periodontal disease management in overall health care, focusing on diabetes, and periodontal disease will also be discussed.

Educational Objectives:

• Acquire an up-to-date understanding of the role of systemic inflammation in chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

• Explain to what extent systemic inflammation can explain the link between periodontal disease and systemic diseases.

• List the important interventions between host genotype, environmental factors, and the oral microbiota as they affect oral and related systemic diseases.

• Provide a basis for understanding the effects of oral care on overall costs of health care.