Although causality of periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease cannot be connected by this short-term study, one can certainly look at periodontal disease as a co-factor playing a role in cardiovascular disease development in specific patient populations. These results demonstrate that mechanical periodontal therapy may modulate surrogate biomarkers of cardiovascular disease and, as such, cardiovascular disease risk may be affected in part by periodontal pathogen reduction employing definitive therapies such as scaling and root planing with adjunctive local antibiotic delivery.

Ultimately, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Optimal oral health should be maintained through early dental intervention and adequate home care by the patient. Helping patients understand that relationships between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease are unfolding may provide motivation for them to improve both their oral, and consequently, their systemic health. Recommending a toothpaste that contains triclosan, with both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, should also be included as part of any program to assist patients in achieving improved periodontal health.

Finally, this study confirms that there is a greater need for dental and medical practitioners to communicate and partner. The general public needs to understand the absolute necessity for optimal periodontal health, and that based on the data presented in this and other supporting studies, periodontal therapy should not be considered an option or an elective procedure.