What does your heart have to do with your smile? More than you’d expect! New research has linked gum disease to serious cardiovascular problems. February is American Heart Health Month, so there is no better time than now to explore this surprising connection. Keep reading below to learn more!
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues in the mouth that support the teeth. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease, while the disease affects over 70% of adults 65 years and older. This common disease is usually caused by the accumulation of bacteria near the gums due to poor oral hygiene. If left untreated, it can worsen and lead to permanent bone damage or even tooth loss.
Signs and symptoms of gum disease include:
- Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing
- Swollen, red or puffy gums
- Gums that feel tender when touched
- Painful chewing
- Persistent bad breath
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Receding gums
How Does Gum Disease Affect the Heart?
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have recently uncovered a strong link between gum disease and heart problems. While more studies need to be done, some scientists believe that the bacteria that causes gum disease can enter into the bloodstream through infected, inflamed gums. Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria can travel to vital organs such as the heart and cause further damage.
Gum disease does not guarantee that you will experience serious heart problems. However, people with gum disease do have two to three times the risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiovascular event, according to Harvard Medical School. This is another compelling reason to take the health of your gums seriously.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
So, if protecting your heart begins with protecting your gum health, what should you do? The good news is that gum disease can usually be prevented simply by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Be sure to brush for a full two minutes each time using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
In addition to daily brushing and flossing, follow these tips to preserve your healthy gums:
- Quit smoking or chewing tobacco
- Eat a mouth-healthy diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables and fewer starches and sugars
- Rinse daily with an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque by up to 20%
- Visit a dentist every six months for a dental exam and professional cleaning
This American Heart Health Month, re-commit yourself to practicing excellent oral hygiene at home! For more tips to protect your heart and mouth, contact your dentist today.
About the Author
Dr. Christine DiBlasi Laster has over a decade of experience helping patients of all ages maintain healthy smiles. The proud University of North Carolina Chapel Hill School of Dentistry graduate regularly performs gum disease therapy at her private practice in Raleigh. To learn more about the link between gum disease and heart health, visit Dr. Laster’s website or call 919-787-0355.