The Link Between Gum Disease and Your Heart: Fact or Fiction?

As we learn more about the inflammation that causes gum disease, and that which causes heart disease, it is beginning to appear they are related. It seems that those patients that have gum disease are more likely to have heart disease, and vice versa. But what is the common link? Read on to learn more about what you should know about gum disease!

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease occurs when the bacteria in your mouth is not properly managed and it begins to irritate your gums and cause an infection. Excessive plaque buildup can cause your gums to separate from your teeth creating pockets that allow bacteria below the gum line where it will also cause an infection in your jawbone.

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease where you may notice that your gums are swollen, red, or irritated. They may also bleed when you brush or floss your teeth. Chronic bad breath that you can’t eliminate is also a tell-tale sign of gingivitis.  

Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease where the infection has reached your bone and begins to destroy it, which can lead to your teeth feeling mobile and result in tooth loss. This is also the stage of gum disease that is more detrimental to your heart since the bacteria causing your condition can enter your blood stream and cause inflammation elsewhere in the body.

The Common Link

The common link between gum disease and heart disease is the inflammation caused by the excess bacteria. Inflammation, or swelling can lead to hardened arteries, which makes it difficult for blood to flow easily to your heart and increases your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Reducing or eliminating the inflammation in your body helps protect you from bacteria spreading to your heart or other areas. When gum disease is controlled it significantly lowers the amount of bacteria and inflammation you have.

How Can I Protect Myself from Gum Disease?

Your visits to your dentist every six months are your best line of defense against gum disease. Your dentist will screen you for it during each examination, and gum disease can often be successfully managed and even reversed when it’s detected early on.

Improvements to your home care routine can also help combat gum disease. Ask your dentist which products might benefit you, such as antibacterial mouth rinse or an electric toothbrush to help you remove the most plaque and bacteria from your mouth during brushing.

If it’s time for your next cleaning and checkup, don’t put off calling your dentist to schedule. It could end up saving your life!

About the Author

Dr. Derek Song and his team focus on prevention, which help patients avoid many dental conditions like gum disease. With consistent preventive visits, we can help you avoid many dental concerns like oral cancer, gum disease, and tooth decay.

To contact Dr. Song call (781) 272-5890 or reach him through his website.