Researchers have found that people with gum disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease. – American Academy of Periodontology

Heart Disease

Several theories exist to explain the link between periodontal disease and heart disease. One theory is that oral bacteria can affect the heart when they enter the blood stream, attaching to fatty plaques in the coronary arteries (heart blood vessels) and contributing to clot formation. Coronary artery disease is characterized by a thickening of the walls of the coronary arteries due to the buildup of fatty proteins. Blood clots can obstruct normal blood flow, restricting the amount of nutrients and oxygen required for the heart to function properly. This may lead to heart attacks.
Another possibility is that the inflammation caused by periodontal disease increases plaque build up, which may contribute to swelling of the arteries.
Researchers have found that people with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease can also exacerbate existing heart conditions. Patients at risk for infective endocarditis may require antibiotics prior to dental procedures. Your periodontist and cardiologist will be able to determine if your heart condition requires use of antibiotics prior to dental procedures.

Stroke

Additional studies have pointed to a relationship between periodontal disease and stroke. In one study that looked at the causal relationship of oral infection as a risk factor for stroke, people diagnosed with acute cerebrovascular ischemia were found more likely to have an oral infection when compared to those in the control group.
-Source: perio.org-

When you have heart disease, maintaning goor oral health is important. Remember:

• Make sure your dentist and hygienist know you have a heart problem
• Have regular dental checkups
• Maintain good oral health by brushing and flossing twice a day
• Eat healthily, exercise, and if you smoke, quit

 

More info

• Oral Health Matters
• Gum Anatomy
• Gum Disease: Gingivitis
• Gum Disease: Periodontitis
• Gum Disease: Gum bleeding pregnancy
• Gum disease and diabetic
• Gum disease and heart disease

 

Treatments of gum disease:

• Scaling and polishing
• Air Polishing – A way to eliminate staining due to smoking, coffee or tea
• Root Planning
• Gum Surgery
• Fear of Dental Treatment? How to overcome it..?

 

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