Association between alveolar bone loss and elevated serum C-reactive protein in Japanese men.

Background: Moderate elevation of C-reactive protein (CRP) is thought to predict type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD), both of which are associated with periodontitis. Recent studies indicate that periodontal disease is associated with moderate elevation of CRP; however, the relationship between alveolar bone loss (ABL) and CRP elevation is unclear.

Methods: A total of 179 Japanese men aged 50 to 54 years old, with at least 10 teeth, were examined as part of a comprehensive health examination before retirement from the Japan Self-Defense Force.