Since February is American Heart Health Month, the American Heart Association is urging people to raise awareness about heart disease – including stroke, heart attacks, and other serious coronary artery diseases – which are the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, and how it can be prevented.
When people make healthy choices and are proactive about managing their health conditions, heart disease is often preventable. Mounting evidence is now showing a correlation between common periodontal conditions – such as gingivitis, cavities, and missing teeth – as predictors for heart disease. So in addition to keeping your smile healthy and beautiful, brushing and flossing may be protecting you from heart disease as well!
While experts don’t yet understand what is causing this connection, several recent studies conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology, have concluded that people with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary conditions.
Findings from another study, published in Circulation: Journal of the America Heart Association discovered that the presence of a specific bacteria in the mouth was an accurate indicator of atherosclerosis, or hardening of the carotid artery. This hardening is caused by the build-up of fat deposits from the blood along the sides of the arteries, creating blockages that can eventually lead to heart attack and stroke.
While researchers know that the bacteria present in our mouths does enter our bloodstream through our gums, and has therefore been found as a component in artery-clogging build-up, they are still uncertain if prevention of periodontal diseases could also prevent heart disease.
What they do know for sure at this point, is that people who are at a higher risk for developing heart disease should take extra special care of their teeth and gums: making sure to follow proper brushing and flossing guidelines and techniques, visiting the dentist to have regular deep cleaning of the roots of their teeth, and perhaps even surgery to correct any infection or gum disease that may already be present.
Additionally, people who are at risk for developing heart disease should:
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat a heart-healthy diet
• Exercise most days of the week
• Control any conditions that increase risk, including diabetes, cholesterol, or high blood pressure
Learn more about the connection between periodontal diseases and heart health, or call us at 908-998-4698 to schedule an appointment!
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