3 Credit Hours

This course explores the evolving role of the dental hygienist in managing oral-systemic health through a modern, personalized approach to periodontal care. Participants will understand of the relationship between oral inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, emphasizing infection vs. inflammation and
understanding the body’s immune response. The course introduces the role of genetic susceptibility and host response in periodontal disease. Attendees will also be introduced to advanced adjunctive therapies, including salivary diagnostics, microbiome modulation, probiotics, and targeted nutritional support.

Learning Objectives:

• Differentiate between infection and inflammation in systemic disease
• Explain the relationship between periodontal disease, CVD, and diabetes
• Understand the role of the immune systems in periodontal progression
• Identify how genetic variability influences host response and treatment outcomes
• Evaluate the use of salivary diagnostics in periodontal risk assessment
• Understand the role of probiotics, prebiotics, and nutrients in health and healing
• Recognize the limitations and potential risks of indiscriminate probiotic and
  antiseptic use

Jill Taylor has no financial relationships relevant to this presentation to disclose.

Dental Society of Western PA is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider Approved by Pennsylvania Dental Association.
ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.
Dental Society of Western PA designates this activity for 6 continuing education credits.