Gum Disease and Your Heart

Previous studies have found the incidence of heart disease is about twice as high in people with periodontal (gum) disease, but until recently no plausible cause had been suggested. Now studies indicate that the most common strain of bacteria in dental plaque may cause blood clots. When blood clots escape into the bloodstream, there is a relation to increased risk of heart attacks and other heart illnesses.

People with periodontal disease, which is over one half the adult population, have an infection that causes chronic inflammation of the gums. It is also a path for these bacteria to enter the bloodstream.

A recent study describes the association between heart disease and gum disease to be at least as strong as the linkage of heart disease to cholesterol, body weight, or smoking.

Unlike most diseases that give us early warning signs, gum disease progresses silently, often without pain. It may develop slowly or progress quite rapidly. More than half of all people over 18 have at least the early stages of periodontal disease and after the age of 35, three of four people are affected to some degree.

Preventing and treating periodontal disease should be a high priority towards maintaining your overall health. Visit your dentist on a regular basis and you will be taking a positive step towards preventing potential heart disease.