Yukihito Higashi, Akira Taguchi
Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the periodontal tissues, encompassing pathologies such as gingivitis and periodontitis. It has been shown that these conditions not only lead to localized inflammation but also have systemic effects on overall health. Recent studies have strongly suggested a link between periodontal disease and chronic systemic diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases. Among these, endothelial function plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health, and endothelial dysfunction has been reported to contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, hypertension, and coronary artery disease. Endothelial function refers to the ability of endothelial cells to regulate vasodilation and vasoconstriction, primarily through the production and release of nitric oxide. Normal endothelial function is essential for maintaining proper blood flow and blood pressure, but it is known to be impaired by inflammation and oxidative stress. In particular, the systemic inflammatory response and bacterial products associated with periodontal disease have drawn attention for their potential to negatively affect endothelial cells and impair endothelial function. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of the association between periodontal disease and endothelial function, focusing on clinical trial results, mechanisms, and therapeutic aspects.