The Connection Between Heart Disease and Oral Care

Did you know that Gum disease (periodontitis) is associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease? This concept is being studied extensively. You may not be aware that poor dental health also increases the risk of a bacterial infection in the blood stream. This is important to know because it can affect your heart valves. In fact, if you already have artificial heart valves, oral health may be particularly important.

But there’s more to the story. While there appears to be some connection between oral health and heart disease, taking good care of your teeth isn't a proven way to prevent heart disease. Ongoing research will help us to understand more.

This concept is not new. Poor oral health has been seen as the possible culprit of heart disease for many years now. In 2012, the American Heart Association reviewed the available scientific evidence at the time and experts concluded that poor oral health hasn't been proven to cause heart disease, nor has treating existing gum disease been proved to reduce the risk of heart disease. But studies have shown that gum disease, also called periodontitis, is associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease.

Interestingly, tooth loss patterns are connected to coronary artery disease, and a strong connection has been made between diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Moreover, there is evidence that people with diabetes benefit from periodontal treatment.

So even though oral health may not be a key to heart disease prevention, it's important to take care of your teeth and gums. It might be unrealistic for you to brush after every meal, but make a habit of brushing your teeth at least twice a day. Cleanse away bacteria and food before it turns into plaque and tartar. 

Floss Daily

Tiny particles get lodged between teeth and many cannot be reached by brushing alone. Flossing goes in between teeth to remove them. 

Visit the Dentist 

Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months if possible. Your dentist may find something and deal with it before it gets worse. Also, next time you visit your dentist, have a conversation about the relationship between heart disease and gum disease. If you're concerned about heart disease prevention, ask your dentist about proven ways to reduce your risk. Stopping smoking and maintaining a healthy weight are very important too.

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