Aim: Periodontal disease elevates systemic inflammatory markers strongly associated with coronary heart disease (CHD) risk. The aim of this... » More

Aim:

Periodontal disease elevates systemic inflammatory markers strongly associated

with coronary heart disease (CHD) risk. The aim of this randomized controlled

trial was to investigate the effect of non-surgical periodontal therapy on

systemic C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen and white blood cells in CHD

patients.

Materials and Methods:

Angiographically proven CHD patients with periodontitis

(n = 317) were randomized to intervention (n = 212) or control group

(n = 105). Primary outcome was reduction in serum CRP levels; secondary outcomes

were reductions in fibrinogen and white blood cells. Periodontal treatment

included scaling, root planing and oral hygiene instructions. Periodontal and

systemic parameters were assessed at baseline and at 2-month follow-up. Intentto-

treat (ITT) analysis was performed.

Results:

Study was completed by 246 subjects (intervention group = 161; control

group = 85). Significant improvements in periodontal and systemic parameters

were observed in intervention group. The number of subjects with CRP > 3mg/L

in intervention group decreased by 38% and in control group increased by 4%.

ITT analysis gave a significant (v2=4.381, p = 0.036) absolute risk reduction of

12.5%.

Conclusion:

In CHD patients with periodontitis, non-surgical mechanical periodontal

therapy significantly reduced systemic levels of C-reactive protein, fibrinogen

and white blood cells.

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