Final answer:
Periodontal disease starts as gingivitis and can progress to periodontitis, causing systemic inflammation that may increase the risk for coronary heart disease. Good oral hygiene and professional treatment, including antibiotics, can manage periodontal disease and reduce heart disease risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
Connection Between Periodontal Disease and Coronary Heart Disease
Periodontal disease is an infection that leads to inflammation and tissue damage in the structures that surround the teeth. Gingivitis is the initial stage, where the accumulation of plaque causes inflammation and irritation of the gums.
Without proper treatment, this can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease where inflammation spreads deeper into the tissues. This can result in gum recession, bone loss, and tooth movement or loss.
Furthermore, the inflammatory mediators released by endotoxins, such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), from the bacteria like Porphyromonas, Streptococcus, and Actinomyces may contribute to systemic health issues, including coronary heart disease (CHD). The presence of these inflammatory mediators in the bloodstream can lead to arterial plaque accumulation, potentially leading to atherosclerosis—a risk factor for CHD.
Maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent the progression of gingivitis to periodontitis. In cases of established periodontitis, professional dental cleaning, and possibly antibiotics like tetracycline, doxycycline, and macrolides, may be required to manage the infection and prevent further complications, including the increased risk for coronary heart disease.