Connections Between Gum Disease And Heart Disease

IF YOU’RE LIKE MOST OF OUR VALUED PATIENTS, you want to take good care of your heart, right? Of course! But did you know that your toothbrush ranks right up there with your gym membership and that healthy cookbook you just bought? It’s true!

According to Dr. Hammond, “There are lots of recent studies that suggest gum disease—and other oral health issues—are directly related to heart problems.”

The American Academy of Periodontology recently reported that people with periodontal disease are nearly twice as likely to have heart disease. Another study found that common oral health issues, including gingivitis, missing teeth, and cavities are as good at predicting heart disease as are cholesterol levels! Surprised?

While there’s still a LOT to learn about these connections, the evidence seems to be mounting. Dr. Ellis adds, “We know that mouth bacteria can enter the bloodstream through your gums. These same bacteria are found clumped up in artery plaques. One theory is that they stick to your bloodstream fatty plaques which can directly contributing to blockages.”

Other theories revolve around your body’s defenses against bacteria, including the natural response of inflammation. Oral bacteria travelling through your bloodstream may cause blood cells to swell, leading to narrowing of arteries and risk of clots.

The exact relationships between cardiovascular disease and periodontal disease are still unclear, but modern research has concluded there’s definitely a connection. Of course, you don’t want to just ignore all of the other things you can do to keep your heart healthy and just focus on brushing! Keep eating healthy foods, exercise regularly, and take care of risk factors like diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure.

And, when it’s SO EASY to have us help you clear up any periodontal disease problems… Do that too! It only makes good common sense. And don’t forget that PREVENTION goes a long way in preventing problems down the road.

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We look forward to the next time we see you. Thanks.