Periodontal-Systemic Link
The proposed bidirectional relationship between periodontal disease and systemic health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Full Definition
The periodontal-systemic link refers to a body of evidence suggesting that periodontal disease can both influence and be influenced by various systemic conditions. Key areas of research include the association of periodontitis with type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, preterm birth, and rheumatoid arthritis. Editors working on periodontal literature must understand this term is descriptive of an association, not an established causal relationship in most cases. The hyphen in 'periodontal-systemic' is standard when used as a compound modifier before a noun. Care must be taken not to overstate causality when copyediting such material.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate as a compound modifier ('periodontal-systemic link'); always qualify with level of evidence when used in clinical papers.
In Context
- "The review explored the periodontal-systemic link with particular focus on glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes." — Literature review article
- "Authors should be cautious not to use 'periodontal-systemic link' to imply causation where only association has been demonstrated." — Journal editorial policy note