03 Nov The Link Between Heart Disease and Gum Disease
Believe it or not, oral health and heart health are definitely connected. When there is a problem with one, there is often trouble with the other. In fact, there are many connections between chronic health problems and poor oral health. One of the most concerning is the link between gum disease and heart disease. If you’re at risk for heart disease, it’s even more important for you to take steps to prevent gum disease—here’s why.
How Poor Oral Health Is Related to Heart Disease
Studies have found that people with periodontal disease (also known as gum disease) are three times more likely to have cardiovascular disease. This link is still being explored, however, there are two compelling theories as to why it exists.
1: Bacteria
Our mouths are the gateway to our bodies. When bacteria enter the mouth, they also enter the digestive system. Also, if there are any open wounds in the mouth—as there often are with gum disease—they can also enter the bloodstream.
Bacteria can do a lot worse than give you tummy troubles or a sase of the sniffles. Some forms of oral bacteria have been linked to diseases like endocarditis and atherosclerosis. Those two scary-looking words are scary for a reason.
Endocarditis is a life-threatening disease that inflames the heart’s inner lining and valves. It is typically caused by a rare strain of bacteria that can sometimes be found in the mouth. If left untreated, the infection can cause irreversible damage to the heart, and it can even lead to death.
Atherosclerosis is the most common heart condition. This disease narrows the blood vessels and restricts blood flow. With atherosclerosis, the arteries become blocked by a plaque made up of cholesterol, fat, blood cells, calcium, and the other substances your blood carries throughout the body. Bacteria can make this condition worse by adding to the blockages, or by causing inflammation, further restricting the arteries.
2: Inflammation
Gum disease causes constant, active inflammation, which can have negative long-term effects on your body. In the short term, inflammation is a useful way for your body to flood an area with healing immune cells.
However, chronic inflammation is a major contributor to atherosclerosis, because the immune system is flooding the bloodstream with healing cells. Inflammation can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries, restricting blood flow even more. It can even cause strokes by restricting blood vessels in the brain.
How to Reduce the Risk of Gum Disease
There are two major ways to reduce your risk of gum disease, and both of them involve getting rid of dental plaque.
1. Brush and Floss Every Day
Establish a good oral health routine that includes brushing your teeth twice a day and using dental floss as well as an oral rinse at least once a day. Reducing the amount of dental plaque in your mouth will help eliminate dangerous bacteria.
2. Get Regular Dental Cleanings
Twice-yearly visits to your dentist for a professional cleaning will remove all the plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing can’t reach. But if you’re at risk for heart disease, getting your teeth cleaned three or four times a year may be a good idea. And if you already have gum disease, frequent treatment and cleanings will keep it from getting worse.
Gum Disease Prevention in Prescott, Arizona
Excellent oral health is within your reach here at Hicks Dental Group. We offer the best in dental technology and an experienced team of dentists, hygienists, and support staff. If you want to reduce your risk of gum disease, call us today to set up an appointment.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (11/2/24). Photo by Chris Blonk on Unsplash.