Jeftha, AntheaHolmes, Haly2015-03-252015-03-252013Jeftha, A. and Holmes, H. (2013). Periodontitis and cardiovascular disease. South African Dental Journal (SADJ), 68 (2): 60, 62-631029-4864http://hdl.handle.net/10566/1400Periodontal medicine has been studied and reviewed extensively since its introduction to the dental fraternity. The association of periodontal disease with and its effects on the cardiovascular system are amongst the many topics explored. A summary of the research into these associations and the possible mechanisms of any relationship is presented. Although a link between these two chronic inflammatory diseases is evident, the very heterogeneity of the relevant studies has not provided evidence sufficient to support an actual causal relationship. More stringent epidemiologic and intervention studies are required.enThis file may be freely used for educational uses. No commercial reproduction or distribution of this file is permitted without written permission of the South African Dental Association (SADA). Note that the SADA retains all intellectual property rights in the article.Periodontal medicineCardiovascular diseaseArticle