SEVEN HILLS DENTAL

Family, Orthodontic & Implant Dentistry

SEVEN HILLS DENTAL

Family, Orthodontic & Implant Dentistry

Periodontal Disease, Heart Disease and Stroke


Researchers have found that gum disease sufferers are nearly twice as likely to also suffer from coronary heart disease. In addition, research studies show oral infection is indeed a risk factor for stroke and people diagnosed with acute cerebrovascular ischemia were more likely than average (*not inclusive) experiencing some degree periodontal disease as well.

The old adage is true: You are what you eat. The same can be said for your oral health, and gum disease sufferers should take note of this fact because they're nearly twice as likely to also suffer from another condition like heart problems or stroke too! So next time an elderly relative comes into town asking if we know how he/she got that way (namely toothless), don't forget the importance diet played in their overall wellness journey - it may not seem possible at first glance but there'll always be some forma link between plaque build-up on teeth AND other ailments down below.

Coronary heart disease occurs when the walls of our coronary arteries become progressively thicker due to buildup of fatty proteins. The heart then suffers from a lack in oxygen and must labor harder to pump blood throughout your body; this can lead into an attack or even death if not treated quickly enough with medication!

Reasons for the Connection

The presence of periodontal disease can worsen heart conditions

The cardiologist and dentist work in tandem with one another to treat individuals who are experiencing both medical issues.

There are several theories which may explain the link between heart disease, stroke and periodontal disease, which include the following:

  • Oral bacteria affect the heart – There are many different strains of periodontal bacteria. Researchers assert that some of these strains of bacteria enter the bloodstream and attach to the fatty plaques in the heart blood vessels (coronary arteries). This attachment then contributes to clot formation causing grave danger to the individual.
  • Inflammation – Periodontal disease causes severe inflammation in the gum tissue which elevates the white blood cell count and also the high sensitivity C-reactive protein levels. Research studies have shown that elevated levels of C-reactive proteins have been linked to heart disease.
  • Infectious susceptibility – Individuals who experience particularly high levels of oral bacteria may have weaker immune systems and an inadequate host inflammatory response. These factors may induce specific vascular effects which have previously been shown to contribute in the onset of certain forms of heart disease.

Diagnosis and Treatment

With periodontal disease being linked to both heart attacks and strokes, it is crucial that you seek immediate treatment. Initially the dentist will conduct thorough examinations of your teeth as well as x-rays in order find out if bone loss has occurred on either side.

The dentist is able to conduct deep cleaning treatments such as scaling and root planing in order remove hardened calculus from gum pockets. An antibiotic may be prescribed with the goal that bacteria are completely destroyed, preventing periodontal disease from spreading further down towards your teeth or gums. In most cases it can easily prevent this type of infection if you keep up with regular cleanings at an earlier stage when there aren't any signs yet.