This is an extensive epidemiologic study based on the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a biennial longitudinal survey of individuals over 50 years old (and spouses). The data from 1996, 1998, 2000, 2002 and 2004 was included. Although there are limitations to the study, most notably lack of information on detailed dental treatment procedures, they found that women who receive dental care may reduce their risk of future cardiovascular disease events by at least one-third. The findings may only apply to married middle-aged and older individuals, as the data set is only representative for this group. The authors conclude that "research on dental care and its relationship to non-oral health conditions is yielding important results."
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