Does apical periodontitis have systemic consequences? The need for well-planned and carefully conducted clinical studies

van der Waal, S.V., Lappin, D.F. and Crielaard, W. (2015) Does apical periodontitis have systemic consequences? The need for well-planned and carefully conducted clinical studies. British Dental Journal, 218(9), pp. 513-516. (doi: 10.1038/sj.bdj.2015.340) (PMID:25952428)

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Abstract

Apical periodontitis, infection of the root canal system, may have systemic consequences. This proposal has been brought forward many times in dentistry literature but the general consensus is that there is no scientific basis for an association between endodontic infections and general health. This opinion paper argues that, in order to obtain such a scientific basis, or to rule out the issue all together, we need carefully designed longitudinal challenge model (that is, intervention) studies in which we follow specific biomarkers of inflammation. These biomarkers can be those that are currently being substantiated in chronic inflammation and low-grade inflammation studies in medicine and nutritional science, where the presence of these inflammatory disorders is linked to systemic outcomes. A list of suggested biomarkers has been included.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Lappin, Dr David
Authors: van der Waal, S.V., Lappin, D.F., and Crielaard, W.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Dental School
Journal Name:British Dental Journal
Publisher:Nature Publishing Group
ISSN:0007-0610
ISSN (Online):1476-5373

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