Mechanism connecting periodontal disease and heart disease discovered

News brief

A link between periodontal disease and certain inflammatory conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes, has been known for many years. However, the mechanism of action has remained unknown. But researchers at the University of Toronto believe they have discovered the link, which is said to be rooted in a hyperactive immune response. Their findings were detailed today in a paper published by the Journal of Dental Research.

Additional information may be found at the following links:

• A summary of the research may be found here: "Mechanism linking gum disease to heart disease, other inflammatory conditions discovered" (University of Toronto website)
• The full paper published in the Journal of Dental Research may be found here: "Periodontal Inflammation Primes the Systemic Innate Immune Response" 

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