Teeth and Gums Could be Linked to Heart Health

Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is the best defense against gum disease and tooth decay, but did you realize that it could also be good for your overall health?

Accredited Fellow with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Jack Ringer will tell you that, keeping your teeth healthy can help prevent stroke, heart disease, and even death.

Although the evidence isn’t conclusive, the experts believe that the plaque, tartar, and bacteria from gum disease and tooth decay can travel through your bloodstream attaching itself to the walls of your blood vessels. That bacterium can cause blood clots and could clog the arteries in your heart.

According to Dr. Ringer and his Dental Cosmetics Dental Practice in Anaheim Hills, a healthy mouth leads to a healthy heart. Doctors have been talking about a link between the two for over 20 years. Heart disease is a huge problem all over the globe and appears to go hand in hand with heart disease.

Doctors say Might Be

Thomas Boyden, Jr. from the Spectrum Health Medical Group of Cardiovascular Service in MI, says, “For the most part, the data is circumstantial. It’s hard to prove cause and effect. However, I think the data is pretty strong and there definitely a link.”

So What Is the Link?

Swelling and inflammation is the link between your teeth and gums and overall health. Scientists know that swelling can lead to hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis. This condition makes it difficult to get the blood to your heart putting you in the high-risk category for stroke and heart attack.

Gum disease and inflammation go hand in hand, and if you have swollen, sore and red gums, it’s a sure sign that bacteria and toxins are spreading below your gum line. Because your gums are loaded with blood vessels, any disruption to your gum line can lead to an increase in bacteria. Your mouth is already full of bacteria. Bad bacteria are in periodontal disease and can lead to stroke. There is less bacteria in your heart if you don’t have gum disease.

Some researchers believe that the more gum disease bacteria you have, the thicker your arteries could be. If they are thick, it makes it difficult for the blood to flow to the brain, which could lead to stroke. High amounts of oral bacteria put you at risk for heart disease as well.

Another Consideration

Although bacteria play an essential role in heart and healthy teeth and gums, physicians agree that lifestyle is a huge factor as well. People who suffer from gingivitis and the more serious periodontal disease have bad habits as well. Some may smoke, skip exercise, or make bad dietary choices. Doctors know that all of those factors play a role in heart health and teeth and gums. A large portion of people who suffer from periodontitis also have diabetes, another risk when it comes to heart health.

Boost your Heart Health by Brushing Your Teeth

Although the American Heart Association claims no evidence in linking heart and gum disease prevention, good oral health hygiene habits, such as brushing twice and flossing once each day along with regular visits with Dental Cosmetics in Anaheim Hills, will go a long way in preventing gum disease.

Aggressive dental care will help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Brush a bit longer, just not too hard, floss more often, and don’t forget an antiseptic mouth rinse. It wouldn’t hurt to see your dentist more often either.

Keeping your teeth and gums healthy helps your smile, self-confidence and your overall health. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Ringer for a comprehensive dental examination. Your quality and length of life could depend on it.

Call or click for your dental examination with Dr. Ringer today and don’t forget to ask about a complimentary mouth makeover assessment.

A beautiful smile starts with healthy teeth and gums get yours today.