The Truth Behind Gum Disease and Its Link to Heart Disease

The CDC estimates that about a quarter of all deaths per year in the United States are due to heart disease; that’s roughly 610,000 people annually. You’ve probably heard about various risk factors that can affect your cardiovascular health, but did you know that one possible contributor could be in your mouth? In recent years, many studies have found a link between gum disease and heart problems; here’s what you need to know about this unexpected connection.

What is Gum Disease?

The bacteria in your mouth that cause cavities can also infect your gums; this is the condition called gum disease (sometimes referred to periodontal disease). The earliest form is gingivitis, which can be recognized by bleeding, swelling, and redness. At this stage, the infection can be reversed if treated quickly, but if left alone it could lead to severe periodontitis that can spread the infection to your teeth and eventually cause you to lose them.

How is Gum Disease Related to Heart Health?

According to Harvard, people with gum disease are two to three times more likely to suffer from heart attacks and stroke. Many studies have found a similar relation, to the point that the American Dental Association and the American Heart Association have acknowledged it.

This could be due to bacteria being able to enter the bloodstream via the vessels in the gums. From there they are able to travel throughout the body and cause damage to other areas such as the arteries; if the arteries become hardened (a condition known as atherosclerosis), the risk of heart failure becomes higher.

However, it has yet to be proven that gum disease is a direct cause of heart problems. The link could be due to the fact that they can have similar causes. Diabetes, for example, can make your mouth more susceptible to infection and can make heart problems more likely. Poor health habits like smoking can also have a negative impact on multiple parts of your body.

How Can Healthy Gums Protect My Overall Health?

Whether or not gum disease is a factor for heart disease, it’s true that your oral health can eventually affect your overall health. An infection in your gums or in your teeth can abscess, meaning it forms a pocket of bacteria-filled pus; if that happens, the infection may eventually spread to other parts of your body.

For this reason, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene. Keep up your daily brushing and flossing routine; mouthwash may help as well. Be aware of any changes in your mouth and make a dental appointment to address any worrisome symptoms. And of course, your twice-a-year trips to the dentist for preventive care can make a big difference in keeping your teeth and gums clean and healthy.

About the Practice

 At Dental Dynamics, 4 specialists – a dedicated general dentist, a periodontist, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, and an endodontist – combine their skills to provide comprehensive dentistry under one roof. In addition to regular check-ups and preventive cleanings, periodontal therapy is available for patients suffering from gum disease. To make an appointment, visit their website or call (847) 329-9801.