Is There a Connection Between Dental Health and Heart Attacks?

You might have heard several times that oral health is vital for overall physical well-being. It is believed that more than 80 percent of the adult population is living with undiagnosed periodontal or gum disease. This often happens because a person’s teeth feel fine most of the time, so they ignore that they need to visit a dentist and rarely focus on oral health.

Unknown to many people, such undiagnosed gum disease is linked with increased heart disease. Several studies have indicated that advanced gum disease puts you at greater risk of having a heart attack than someone with healthy gums.

Furthermore, oral health provides doctors with early warning signs for various diseases and conditions, including the heart.

How is Oral Health and Heart Disease Related?

Oral health and heart disease are interrelated as bacteria and germs in the mouth can spread to other parts of your body through the bloodstream. When these bacteria reach the heart, it attacks any damaged part, further causing inflammation. This results in a condition called endocarditis, which infects the heart’s inner lining. Moreover, other cardiovascular conditions like clogged arteries and stroke are often attributed to the inflammation caused by oral bacteria.

Are You at Risk of Gum Disease Related Health Issues?

If you have chronic gum conditions like gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease, you are at high risk of cardiovascular disease. This is especially true when the condition remains undiagnosed and unmanaged.

If you don’t have any visible gum inflammation, inadequate oral hygiene and plaque build-up also risk gum disease. In addition, the bacteria that migrate into the bloodstream causes high C-reactive protein. This is a clear indication of inflammation in the blood vessels, which can put you directly at risk of heart disease or brain stroke.

What are Symptoms and Warning Signs of Gum Disease?

Look for the following symptoms and warning signs for gum disease to prevent its spread early on:

1. Red, swollen or sore gums
2. Bleeding gums when you eat, brush or floss
3. Seeing pus or other signs of infection around teeth or gums
4. If you notice a bad taste in your mouth or have a chronic complaint of bad breath.
5. Some of your teeth are loose or feel like they are moving away.

What Are the Preventive Measures?

Good oral hygiene and regular oral examinations are the best way to prevent the spread of gum disease. Become proactive about your oral health to keep your dental health in top condition.

If you have any queries about dental health or on how to take care of your dental health, contact Aura Dentist.