Cardiologists Encouraged to Examine the Mouth With Periodontists Questioning Heart Health

After learning about the genetic link between coronary heart disease and gum disease, I speculated that dentists could be sending patient referrals to cardiologists in the future; connecting diagnosed gum disease to other risk factors for patients with a history of heart disease. It now seems like a trip to the cardiologist will likely include an oral examination and your dentist or periodontist may be questioning the health of your heart slightly more in depth; thanks to newly released clinical recommendations for both medical and dental professionals.

A consensus paper on the relationship between heart disease and gum disease was recently published in the American Journal of Cardiology and the Journal of Periodontology, both leading publications in their respected fields. A press release from the American Academy of Periodontology reveals the new recommendations were developed at a meeting held earlier this year of top opinion-leaders in both cardiology and periodontology.

By working together cardiologists, periodontists, and other valued dental and medical professionals could likely prevent the advancement of heart disease and gum disease by recognizing early sighs of these often devastating conditions.