How Periodontal Disease Affects The Heart

While they may initially seem unrelated, there is a proven correlation between periodontal disease and various heart conditions. Here at EZ Dental, we are dedicated to ensuring that our patients are knowledgeable about their oral health and its effect on their overall health. Continue reading to learn more about how periodontal disease affects the heart.

About Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as periodontitis, is an infection of the gum tissue that is caused by a large amount of bacteria that accumulates underneath the gumline. Periodontal disease is commonly caused by:

• Poor dental hygiene
• Long-term smoking/tobacco product use
• Diabetes
• Genetic factors

Symptoms of periodontal disease include:

• Bleeding gums (even when untouched)
• Red/swollen gums
• Looseness or complete loss of teeth
• Receding gumline
• Pain in teeth or gums
• Bad breath

Periodontal Disease and its Effect on the Heart

While an direct clinical relationship between periodontal disease and heart disease has yet to be officially identified, there have been numerous cases in which it is strongly believed that there is a correlation between the presence of gum and heart disease.

It is currently believed that the inflammation brought on by gum disease may be responsible for the development of atherosclerosis, in which large amounts of plaque, fat, and cholesterol build up inside of the arteries. This obstruction leads to a dramatically lessened blood flow, which may may lead to consequent heart attack or stroke.

It is also believed that the high amounts of bacteria in the mouth that accumulate due to periodontal disease eventually enter the bloodstream, which can lead to infection of the heart or its valves.

Keeping Your Mouth and Heart Healthy

There are a few different precautionary steps that you can take in order to ensure that you protect yourself from developing gum disease:

• Brush at least twice daily for two minutes
• Floss at least twice daily: after eating and before bedtime
• Attend your regularly-scheduled dental appointments twice per year

If you have been previously diagnosed with a heart condition, be sure to inform your dentist. If you have been diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontal disease, be sure to inform your general doctor or heart specialist. Ensuring that your healthcare professionals are as well-informed as possible is the best way to guarantee that they can best help you manage your health.

Here at EZ Dental, we are dedicated to providing our patients with top-tier dental care in San Jose, California. For more information about how we can help you manage your gum disease treatment in San Jose, come by our office or give us a call at (408) 227-6000.