Did you know that people with gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) have two to three times the risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiovascular event?
More and more studies are discovering a possible link between the two, particularly when it comes to gum disease and heart disease. It’s worth nothing, however, that correlation does not indicate causation. Many people diagnosed with heart disease do not have gum disease, and not everyone with gum disease develops heart issues. Their shared risk factors, such as smoking or an unhealthy diet, may explain the association. But there is a growing suspicion that gum disease could be an independent risk factor for heart disease.
Research has demonstrated that bacteria found in the mouth, which contribute to the development of periodontal disease, can enter the bloodstream and increase C-reactive protein levels, an indicator of inflammation in the blood vessels. This could heighten the risk of heart disease and stroke. In light of this recent evidence, the American Dental Association and American Heart Association have now recognized the connection between gum disease and heart disease.
When high cholesterol is present, the risk becomes even more significant. Scientists have discovered oral bacteria in the fatty deposits of people with atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque accumulates in the arteries. If left untreated, these deposits can narrow or block arteries, leading to heart attacks or strokes.
Preventing and Treating Gum Disease
This link could cause health issues for more people than you think. A groundbreaking study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that nearly half of American adults aged 30 and over, and 70% of those 65 and over, have some stage of gum disease. Thankfully, preventing and treating mild gum disease, known as gingivitis, is simple. Whether or not you have heart disease, it’s critical to have routine dental cleanings as part of your long-term preventive care. Whilst also maintaining a good oral hygiene routine, including brushing and flossing at least twice daily and seeing a dentist at least every six months for an evaluation and cleaning.
If you haven’t visited the dentist in some time, it may be worth conducting a brief self-examination in front of a mirror. Although many symptoms of gum disease do not appear until the advanced stages, according to the American Academy of Periodontology, several noticeable warning signs exist, including red, swollen, or tender gums, bleeding during brushing, flossing, or eating hard foods, receding gums, loose or separating teeth, and persistent bad breath. Be sure to visit the dentist if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms. After gum disease is appropriately treated, the elevated risk to your heart should decrease and may even return to normal.
Regardless of whether you have gum disease, it’s worth knowing the symptoms of heart disease. It is, unfortunately, fairly common. In the US, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds.
Symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain, tightness or pressure and chest discomfort.
- Pain in the neck, jaw, throat, upper belly area or back
- Pain, numbness, weakness or coldness in the legs or arms
Always call emergency services if you are experiencing these symptoms.