Did you know periodontal disease is linked with many chronic diseases including diabetes mellitus, hypertension, athero-sclerotic cardiovascular disease (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other heart problems), arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, obesity and psoriasis? The common link joining these chronic diseases at the most basic level is systemic inflammation. Doctors and researchers measure this inflammation by the level of biomarkers in the blood including C-reactive protein, chemokines and cytokines (TNFa, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10) among others.
There is increasing evidence supporting these links and today more than ever, periodontists and primary care doctors are working together to reduce systemic inflammation and reduce the risk for and the severity of these diseases. Evidence shows the systemic benefits of treating oral inflammation from periodontal disease on the rest of the body. Many of these inflammatory diseases including periodontitis are asymptomatic and require clinical diagnosis. Early detection is critical to reduce your risk.
Ask Dr. Anderson
Your periodontist is a great resource for patient education and triage for medical consultation to comprehensively treat the inflammation connected with periodontal disease. Meet Dr. Lauren Anderson aims to provide early detection and collaborates with your primary care doctor to provide the treatment you need.