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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Robert J. Genco, DDS, PhD, UB Office of Science, Technology Transfer and Economic Outreach, 1576 Sweet Home Road, Suite 103, Amherst, NY 14226, 716-645-3113, rjgenco@buffalo.edu

Epidemiologic studies have shown an association between periodontal infections on one hand, and the following systemic conditions: diabetes mellitus, heart disease and stroke, and premature births. In addition, poor oral hygiene is associated with respiratory infections in patients in intensive care units and subjects in nursing homes.

In the case of diabetes, premature birth, and respiratory infection, pilot periodontal intervention trials have shown a beneficial effect on the associated systemic disease or condition. Furthermore, for each of these relationships, evidence of biologic plausibility is available from in vitro and animal model studies of potential pathophysiologic mechanisms linking periodontal infection to these diseases and conditions.

Evidence exists for direct bacterial effects resulting from bacteremias associated with periodontal disease on the systemic target organs, as well as for chronic, destructive, inflammatory processes associated with periodontal disease likely to affect distal organs in a detrimental manner. The molecular and cellular basis of these pathophysiologic mechanisms linking periodontal infection to systemic disease are beginning to be understood and may provide targets for intervention.

Learning Objectives:

• Submitted by organizers Woosung Sohn and George Taylor

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation