Heart disease is the number one killer of people in the United States. In recent years, more studies show that having moderate to severe periodontal (gum) disease can significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
February happens to be both American Heart Month and Gum Disease Awareness Month. Call it irony, or the scientific workings of the human body, the link between your heart and oral health is fascinating!
Your Heart and Oral Health
Oral health is powerful, as it can indicate underlying health problems in your body. That’s where the saying “the mouth is the window to the body” comes from. Your heart and mouth share a special relationship, one that is fueled by bacteria. Let’s take a look at how this relationship can turn toxic.
Your heart and mouth are connected by the spreading of bacteria from the oral cavity to the heart via your bloodstream. When oral bacteria clings to blood vessels and reaches the heart, it causes inflammation, which can lead to cardiovascular problems such as heart attack, infection, and stroke.
Cardiovascular Conditions:
- Atherosclerosis: buildup of plaque in the arteries
- Endocarditis: infection of the interlining of the heart
- Heart attack: when blood flow to part of the heart is blocked
- High blood pressure: force of blood against artery walls is too high
- Stroke: blood vessels to the brain are blocked
When you suffer from periodontal disease, your gums become infected with bacteria from dental plaque. Granted, there are various stages of the disease, but if left untreated, the infection can spread and travel to other parts of the body like your heart. Periodontal disease can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene habits such as regular brushing and flossing as well as routine dental cleanings and exam.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease:
- Bad breath or foul taste in the mouth
- Gums that bleed easily
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Receding gums
- Pus of signs of infection
- Red, swollen, and/or sore gums
If you have any questions of concerns regarding periodontal disease and the connection to heart health, call us at 954-344-4488, or complete an online appointment request to schedule your consultation.