Oral Health & Overall Health

Over the past 20 years, scientists have been discovering more ways in which a person's oral health is related to a person's general health. Along with heart disease, poor oral health has been linked to diabetes, low birth weight pre-term babies, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis and Alzheimer's, among other diseases.

Link between Gum Disease and Heart Attacks

When a person has gum disease, the body reacts to mouth bacteria with swelling. Gum disease is an inflammatory disease, as can be heart disease. This swelling response results in inflammation in the blood vessels lining the heart which contributes to fatty deposit build-up inside the heart's arteries. Research shows these bacteria travel through the bloodstream and into the heart.

Heart Facts

• Heart disease accounts for 25% of deaths each year in the U.S.
• Half of the people who have heart disease have none of the traditional risk factors, such as high cholesterol.
• Gum disease doubles a person's risk for heart attack.
• Patients who respond to dental therapy for gum disease are four times more likely to reduce their heart disease risk category.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Periodontal treatment can reduce the body's inflammatory response and provide protection from other health issues, including those of the heart. Oral antibiotics, or those targeted at the problem areas, combined with deep dental cleanings have shown success in controlling gum disease bacteria.

Preventing Gum Disease

• Brush and floss as recommended by a dentist
• Electric/Sonic toothbrushes help
• Keep dental cleanings and check-ups (2x per year)

The Important Facts

• Poor oral health has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, low birth weight pre-term babies, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis and Alzheimer's.
• Research shows that gum-disease bacteria can travel through the bloodstream and into the heart.
• Gum disease doubles a person's risk for heart attack.
• Serious gum disease may affect blood sugar control and contribute to the progression of diabetes.
• Brushing and flossing, using electric toothbrushes and keeping regular dental check-ups will help you avoid gum disease.
• For more information about gum disease, please ask your dentist today.