Abstract
Background and aims. Periodontal disease is common among adults and is a potential source of chronic
inflammation. Recent data have suggested an important role for chronic inflammation in the development of coronary heart
disease (CHD). The purpose of this study was to address cardiologists’ knowledge regarding the effects of periodontal diseases
on coronary heart system.
Materials and methods. A cross-sectional study was designed for cardiologists in Tabriz, Iran. A total of 54 cardiologists
participated in the study. Each participant was given a self-administered questionnaire. It was a closed-ended questionnaire
with responses presented as yes/no/don’t know choices. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results. Cardiologists’ knowledge about periodontal disease was moderate. Eighty-two percent of cardiologists agreed
that inflammation is a key component between periodontal disease and CHD; 76% agreed that controlling infection and
inflammation is important for managing CHD and 62% reported not receiving any education on oral healthcare. Eighty
percent of cardiologists believed that medical and dental students should be trained to work collaboratively.
Conclusion. It is important for educators and administrators in higher education to examine the need for interprofessional
education and collaboration between medicine and dentistry.