Periodontal infections and cardiovascular disease: is it a mere association?

The oral cavity is a major site of chronic infection and inflammation, particularly periodontal or chronic gum diseases. In recent years there has been increasing interest in the "periodontal systemic connection" between periodontal health parameters and risks of cardiovascular disease. Given that poor oral health and cardiovascular disease are major worldwide health problems, their association are potentially important. The article summarizes the evidences from epidemiologic studies and studies that focused on potential contributing mechanisms to provide an insight of this association.

Enamel matrix derivative in periodontal reconstructive surgery. A new approach in periodontal regeneration.

True periodontal regeneration is the goal of any periodontal regenerative techniques. Cementum formation is a key event in the development of root and supporting periodontium. Due to its distribution, acellular cementum is the type most affected by early to moderate periodontitis. Studies over the past twenty years demonstrated that, enamel matrix proteins from the root sheath are involved in the formation of acellular, during tooth development. Thus the adjunctive use of enamel matrix derivatives in conjunction with regenerative periodontal surgery could possibly lead to true periodontal regeneration. The purpose of this article is to review the use of enamel matrix derivative in true periodontal regeneration.