Untreated gum disease can lead to devastating consequences for your oral health, such as chronic bad breath, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. However, its effects can reach even further. Gum disease has been linked to a number of serious overall health issues, including preterm birth, dementia, and heart problems. In this post, we’ll examine the link between gum health and heart health.
Gum Disease and Heart Disease Go Hand in Hand
Various studies have noted an association between gum disease and heart disease. For example, an article in Harvard Heart Letter noted, “People with gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) have two to three times the risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiovascular event.” A different study, published in 2016, found that individuals with gum disease have a 50 percent higher risk of heart attack than people with healthy gums.
Causation or Correlation?
Clearly, there is a strong correlation between gum disease and heart problems. However, the question remains, is it a causal relationship? That is, does the gum disease actually lead to heart disease, or is the correlation due to common risk factors, such as smoking?
Many experts believe that gum disease can indeed contribute to heart disease. Their conviction stems from the fact that when bacteria from gum disease invade the bloodstream, it increases inflammation throughout the body. Chronic inflammation, in turn, contributes to a slew of systemic health problems, including atherosclerosis (atherosclerosis is a condition wherein fatty deposits cling to artery walls). Furthermore, oral bacteria have been found in the fatty deposits of individuals with atherosclerosis.
It is also worth noting that people who receive adequate oral care for their gum disease have significantly lower (10 – 40 percent) cardiovascular care costs than people with untreated gum disease.
Protect Your Gums, Protect Your Heart
The link between gum disease and heart disease provides a strong motivation for everyone to pay more attention to their gum health. To protect your gums, and thus lower your risk of cardiovascular problems, you should:
- Make oral hygiene a priority. Regular, thorough brushing and flossing can rid your gums of harmful bacteria.
- Attend regular dental checkups. Routine dental cleanings go a long way toward preventing gum disease. If your dentist notices any early signs of gum disease, they can provide prompt treatment.
- Receive orthodontic care if necessary. Misaligned teeth can trap bacteria between them and increase the risk of gum disease.
- Eat a healthy diet. Eating a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables is good for both your heart and gums.
How healthy are your gums? Taking good care of this precious pink tissue could do more than help you maintain a functional smile — it could save your life!
About the Author
Dr. Bryan Griffith is an experienced general dentist in Prestonsburg. He provides thorough preventive care to ward off gum disease, as well as periodontal therapy to fight existing gum disease. If you would like to learn more about how he can help you achieve a healthier mouth and improved overall wellness, contact our team today at 606-874-9311.