Understanding Oxidative Stress: Allowing Your Lifespan to Match Your Health Span

Scientific Session

Dr. Amy Doneen, DNP, ARNP

Course description

Oxidative stress is a fundamental biological process that drives endothelial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and the development of atherosclerosis, making it a common pathway linking oral disease with cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurodegenerative disorders. This comprehensive presentation explores the latest evidence describing the role of oxidative stress in the initiation and progression of arterial disease, emphasizing the critical oral-systemic connection and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration.

Using the evidence-based BaleDoneen Method® as a clinical framework, participants will learn how to identify the root causes of oxidative stress, incorporate advanced risk assessment and vascular imaging, recognize the impact of periodontal pathogens and chronic inflammation on arterial health, and develop personalized prevention strategies that reduce lifetime risk of heart attack, ischemic stroke, type 2 diabetes, and cognitive decline.

Objectives & what to expect

• Explain the mechanisms by which oxidative stress contributes to endothelial dysfunction, vascular inflammation, and the development and progression of atherosclerosis.
• Identify the major clinical, metabolic, infectious, and lifestyle contributors to oxidative stress and discuss strategies to reduce their impact on cardiovascular and overall health.
• Develop interdisciplinary approaches that strengthen collaboration between dental and medical professionals to improve patient outcomes through coordinated management of oxidative stress and systemic inflammation.