As with other studies that have examined associations between periodontal disease and CVD, caution must be taken not to extrapolate these results to suggest a causal link between these two diseases. Nonetheless, these findings are the first to indicate an association between Lp-PLA₂ and oral health, inferring a possible independent association between oral health and inflammation, which suggests that inflammation may be a factor in the relationship between oral health and CVD.

Given the existing knowledge of the relationship between chronic periodontal inflammation and CVD, screenings using self-reported periodontal disease status may be useful for identifying at-risk individuals who could benefit from CVD prevention strategies. Educating individuals about the association between periodontal inflammation and cardiovascular disease is one such strategy. And preventive oral care, including oral hygiene to reduce bacteria, can minimize oral inflammation that potentially contributes to CVD.