The presence of systemic disease in patients requiring periodontal therapy creates challenges for management. Alteration of treatment plans, with emphasis on physician consultation and preventive periodontal care, is frequently needed to minimize the impact of periodontal disease on the systemic condition. Conversely, detection and treatment of systemic disorders may impact upon the status of the periodontium and the success of periodontal therapy. The goal of holistic patient management is facilitated by a free flow of information between the patients and their medical and dental health care...