C–reactive protein levels and the association of carotid artery calcification with tooth loss

Objectives: The relationship between carotid artery calcification (CAC) and tooth loss was investigated and its association with inflammatory mediator levels was evaluated. Subjects and methods: Ninety–two participants were examined for health and periodontal status. Panoramic radiographs were obtained for CAC identification. C-reactive protein (CRP), intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM–1), and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM–1) levels were measured. Results: Fifteen participants (16.3%) had CAC, 12 (80.0%) of whom were female. Mean age of participants with CAC was 55.3 ± 12.2 years, while that of participants without CAC was 48.9 ± 9.4 years. Median number of tooth loss in participants with CAC was 11, whereas that of individuals without CAC was 3 (P = 0.008). Age and presence of CAC were associated with the number of tooth loss, independent of health status (β = 0.452, P = <0.001 and β = 0.257, P = 0.005). Based on CRP levels, 10 participants (71.4%) were at intermediate risk of coronary heart disease (range, 1.0–2.3 μg ml⁻¹), while four participants (28.6%) were at low risk (<1.0 μg ml⁻¹). CRP, ICAM–1, or VCAM–1 levels were not significantly related to the presence of CAC or tooth loss. Conclusions: Patients with higher tooth loss have a greater prevalence of CAC. Patients with CAC should be referred for medical consultation.