Oral Health And General Health- A Connection Worth Noticing

Did you know that good overall health begins with optimal oral health

? Failure to care for your teeth, gums and your bite can result in development of medical conditions that can be more serious than gum problems or tooth loss. Your mouth is a pathway to the rest of your body, requiring adequate maintenance of your oral health to protect your general health.

Research is increasingly pointing to a connection between the oral health and heart conditions, more specifically the gums. With heart disease claiming more than half a million lives this year, being the number one killer of Americans, your oral health is not something to be taken lightly. In fact, studies have shown that people with moderate or advanced gum disease have a greater prevalence of cardiovascular disease than patients who do not have any form of gum disease.

Gum Disease Triggers Further Complications with your Heart Health

Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease or gingivitis, in its earlier stages, is caused by the build-up of plaque. It is estimated that 80 percent of American adults suffer from some degree of gum disease. Research has also suggested that people who have gum disease are at a higher risk for heart attack because if bacteria in your infected gums dislodge, they can enter your bloodstream, attach to arterial plaque and could result in an increase of clot formation.

More than 90 percent of all systemic diseases have oral symptoms. Periodontal disease is considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disease in addition to smoking, high cholesterol and hypertension. Another study found that the presence of common problems in the mouth, including gum disease, cavities, and missing teeth, were as good at predicting heart disease as cholesterol levels.

One theory suggests that as infected gums bleed, bacteria can become dislodged during normal brushing, flossing or chewing and enter the bloodstream. If the bacteria reach the arteries, it can cause arterial plaque buildup, which leads to hardening of the arteries and decreased blood flow. The decreased blood flow can then result in heart attacks. The second theory states that inflammation of the gums can contribute to swelling in the arteries, which can lead to heart complications.

Early Diagnosis is Essential to Optimum Overall Health

Your best defense against gum disease is prevention and early detection. Your dentist can identify gum disease and other health problems in their earliest stages and administer the appropriate treatment to restore your gums back to health. If you notice any of the following signs, notify your dentist immediately:

Gums that bleed easily

Swollen, red and tender gums

Gums pulling away from teeth

Persistent bad breath or unpleasant taste

Change in bite

Loosening or separating teeth

Visiting your dentist regularly will help in keeping your mouth in good health and also allow your dentist to watch for various developments that may point to other health complications. A dental exam can also be used to detect poor nutrition and hygiene, growth and development problems and improper jaw alignment. Talk to your dentist at your next appointment about how you can promote healthy gums for a happy heart.

by: Gen Wright

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