The Connection Between Heart Disease and Oral Health

Posted on 4/26/2021 by Amy

It may be hard to believe that our mouth can have an effect on our heart, but research suggests that they are closely linked.

Researchers now believe that the bacteria caused by gum disease travels throughout the body, and therefore, triggers an infection in the heart's valves and inflammation in its vessels.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, these risks are present in most adults. Their research states that nearly half of all Americans aged 30 or above, and 70% of those aged 65 or above have varying degrees of gum disease.

The Link Between Your Gums and Heart

Even though the relationship between oral health and heart disease is still quite unclear, experts are certain that gum disease triggers inflammation that, in turn, triggers strokes, heart attacks and unexpected vascular events.

For example, medical experts have found traces of oral bacteria in the arteries of people diagnosed with atherosclerosis. When left untreated, these deposits tend to clog arteries and, therefore, inevitably lead to a stroke or heart attack.

Heart Valve Disease

Additionally, people who are diagnosed with heart valve disease are at a greater risk of heart attack when they have gum disease. This is so because the bacteria in our mouth crosses into the bloodstream, enters our heart, and then directly infects the valves in our heart. This can especially be a problem for those individuals that have an artificial heart valve.

The Good News

The good news is that the treatment of gum diseases, such as gingivitis, is pretty straightforward. All you need to do is look out for the warning signs such as persistent bad breath, separating teeth, receding gums, bleeding while flossing, brushing or while eating hard food, and swollen/tender gums.

If you notice any of these symptoms, call us at (360) 633-2377 to schedule an appointment and learn more about how to prevent and treat gum diseases.

Find Our Location

Life Long Dental

3100 NW Bucklin Hill Rd, Suite 209, Silverdale, WA 98383

Phone

(360) 633-2377

Fax

(360) 692-8863

Email

info@lifelongdental.com

Office Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday-Friday: 7:30am–4:30pm

Address

3100 NW Bucklin Hill Rd, Suite 209, Silverdale, WA 98383

New Patient Forms

Request Appointment

Dental Blog - Silverdale, WA • Life Long Dental
Dr. Gillespie has created this informative blog to help educate the community. Did you like a topic? Please contact us today! Life Long Dental is your dentist in Silverdale, WA.
Life Long Dental, 3100 NW Bucklin Hill Rd, Suite 209, Silverdale, WA 98383 / (360) 633-2377 / lifelongdental.com / 10/1/2024 / Page Terms:Dentist Silverdale WA /