Oral Health And Your Heart

Practicing good oral hygiene can leave you with a whiter smile and fresher breath

. But what many patients don't know is that failing to keep your teeth and gums healthy can have detrimental affects on your overall health as well.

In fact, research has shown a strong correlation between gum disease and heart disease, which means the same plaque that accumulates on your teeth can lead to a heart attack or stroke. With that being said, daily brushing, flossing and regular check ups aren't just about saving your teeth- it's about protecting your cardiovascular system.

Heart and Gum Disease Connection

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, people with gum disease are almost twice as likely to have heart disease as those without it. Gum, or periodontal, disease is caused by bacteria that adhere to and grow on the surfaces of teeth and under the gum line, resulting in an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. The tissue becomes swollen, painful, and infected, and with time can lead to the progression of bone loss surrounding the teeth. Left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss, and according to recent studies can have even more serious results- heart disease.

Experts have suggested the heart-gum link is caused by one of two reasons. One theory is that the bacteria in the diseased gums can dislodge, enter the bloodstream and attach to blood vessels. This increases clot formation which decreases blood flow to the heart, ultimately heightening blood pressure and increasing chances of heart attack. A second theory is that gum inflammation can contribute to swelling in the arteries.

Gum Disease Prevention

The good news is that gum disease can easily be prevented with good oral hygiene. Brush and floss regularly, eat a well-balanced diet and visit your dentist for routine cleanings and check ups. And if you smoke, consider quitting as smoking may be one of the most significant risk factors for periodontal disease according to the American Academy of Periodontology. Prevention and early detection are your best defenses against gum disease. Your dentist can identify gum disease and other health problems in their earliest stages and administer the appropriate treatment to restore your gums to back to health.

Warning Signs of Gum Disease

When detected early, gum disease can easily be treated by your West Orange dentist. Notify your dentist right away if you notice any of these following warning signs:

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

While additional research is needed to learn more about the link between gum disease and heart disease, it's imperative to keep up with good oral health and routine dental care. The next time your dentist reminds you to brush twice a day and don't forget to floss, keep in mind that this advice may have more significance than just a whiter smile.

by: Gen Wright

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