Periodontal disease: a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease in ESRD patients?

Accumulating evidence suggests that periodontal disease is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain this association. To date, however, a causal relation has not been firmly established. In addition, the extent to which treatment of periodontal disease might result in lower incidence of CVD has not been addressed in any study to date. Further research is needed before recommendations are made regarding monitoring and therapy of periodontal disease.