[Influence of periodontitis: focus on general health]

Recently, several studies showed the influence of periodontitis on systemic diseases. Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, rheumatoid arthritis and preterm low birth weight could be enhanced by periodontal pathogens. Diagnosis of periodontitis would be important in these patients in order to minimize complications of their systemic conditions. This article will review the etiopathologic mechanism and the therapeutic implications of each affection