Dental CE Course: The Role of Periodontal Disease in General Health

We are pleased to offer the 2nd UCSF Symposium on Periodontal Disease and General Health presented by two of the leading researchers and educators in the field, Dr. James Beck and Dr. Steven Offenbacher. You will hear the latest news from studies on the effects of periodontal disease and treatment on systemic health. Attend this exciting program and answer your questions about periodontal medicine and systemic diseases.
Periodontal Medicine was defined in 1996 as the effect of periodontal infections on systemic health. In this emerging field, findings suggest that periodontitis is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, kidney disease and pregnancy complications. Recent treatment studies have explored the potential role of periodontal care on cardiovascular health, pregnancy and diabetes care, as well as the potential overall impact on the healthcare system. This course reviews the literature and presents new findings that will provide the clinician with the necessary background to answer patient questions, advise patients regarding treatment options, and provide a perspective from which they can evaluate new evidence. The lecturers will present a step-wise scenario detailing the current understanding of the underlying risk for periodontal disease, oral-systemic pathways of inflammation, evidence of risk for heart disease, stroke, endothelial function, kidney disease, diabetes, preterm birth, preeclampisa, fetal growth restriction and adverse infant outcomes. The role of regular preventive care and the management of gingivitis and periodontitis by oral hygiene, prophylaxis and periodontal therapy in maintaining overall health and reducing systemic inflammation will be discussed. A critical review and discussion of the existing evidence will enable the audience to appreciate the current issues regarding health care policy and treatment recommendations.
The educational material will focus on the pathogenesis of periodontal disease emphasizing how periodontal infection serves as a systemic challenge and understanding the oral-systemic disease pathway. New clinical diagnostic criteria will be summarized to identify subjects at risk for systemic complications and to provide insight into strategies for clinical management.