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Updated: Jun 6, 2026

12:03
Myocardial Infarction and Functional Outcome Assessment in Pigs
Published on: April 25, 2014
[To prevent myocardial infarction with a tooth brush?]
1Departement Innere Medizin, Kantonsspital Baden, Baden. hansjuerg.beer@ksb.ch
Therapeutische Umschau. Revue Therapeutique
|November 26, 2010
Summary
Periodontal disease may increase cardiovascular event risk, potentially linked to inflammation. Regular tooth brushing is associated with better cardiovascular health, though further research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Cardiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition.
- Cardiovascular events represent a significant global health burden.
- Inflammation markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and fibrinogen are implicated in both conditions.
Observation:
- A Scottish study indicated a 1.69 relative risk of cardiovascular events associated with infrequent tooth brushing.
- This association was observed despite potential biases related to age, gender, and socioeconomic status.
Findings:
- Low-grade inflammation, evidenced by elevated CRP and fibrinogen, may link periodontal disease to cardiovascular events.
- Smoking is identified as a common risk factor for both conditions.
- Pre-surgical screening for "dentogenic" inflammation is recommended, especially before implant surgery.
Implications:
- Maintaining oral hygiene, including regular tooth brushing, may be crucial for cardiovascular health.
- Further investigation into the inflammatory pathways connecting oral health and systemic disease is warranted.
- Clinical guidelines should consider oral health assessments in cardiovascular risk stratification and pre-surgical protocols.
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