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Brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis is very important in maintaining proper dental hygiene, but did you know it can also directly relate to the health of your heart? Some research suggests that gum disease may be a more serious risk factor for heart disease than high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, gender and age. Studies also suggest that people who have gum disease appear to be at a higher risk for heart attacks. Your oral health affects your overall health, so why not start now in protecting your heart and maintain a healthy mouth? Gum Disease Affects Your Cardiovascular Health Bacteria that are present in infected gums can come loose and move throughout your body. The same bacteria that cause gum disease and irritate your gums might travel to your arteries. Researchers are unsure what causes the bacteria to become mobile, but it is suggested that the bacteria can be dislodged and enter the bloodstream during tasks as simple as brushing, flossing or even chewing. Your risk of developing cardiovascular disease varies according to the severity of your gum infection. The worse the infection is, the more likely it is that bacteria are to become blood-borne and move toward your heart. Infected gums can bleed, making it even easier for bacteria to enter your bloodstream. If the bacteria do reach your arteries, they can irritate them in the same way that they would irritate your gum tissue during gum disease. This could cause arterial plaque to accumulate, which can cause hardening of the arteries and decreased or blocked blood flow. Protect Your Gums, Protect Your Heart Gum disease is a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue. The major cause of about 70 percent of adult tooth loss, gum disease affects three out of four people at some point in their life. The primary cause of gum disease is recognized as bacterial plaque, which is a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on the teeth. If plaque is not removed each day by brushing and flossing, it hardens into a rough, porous substance called calculus, which is also known as tartar. Toxins produced and released by bacteria in plaque irritate the gums and cause the breakdown of the fibers that hold the gums tightly to the teeth, creating periodontal pockets that fill with even more toxins and bacteria. As the disease progresses, pockets extend deeper, and the bacteria moves down until the bone that holds the tooth in place is destroyed, causing the tooth to eventually fall out or require extraction. To prevent gum disease, brush your teeth daily, as well as flossing. In addition, get your teeth professionally cleaned by your dentist to minimize your risk, as well. Your dentist can design a personalized program of home oral care to meet your needs and effectively protect your teeth from gum disease. Signs of gum disease may include: ? Bleeding gums ? Sensitive, red or swollen gums ? Bad breath ? Teeth that are loose or appear to have shifted If you exhibit any of these symptoms, a consultation with your dentist is recommended. Maintaining proper dental hygiene is essential in preventing gum disease and any further complications with your dental health. By establishing proper oral health, you can further prevent any other diseases or problems with your overall health, especially your heart. Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Kent Lamoreux, a leading dentist in Parma. Providing comprehensive dental care including, implants, veneers and whitening, Dr. Lamoreux is a highly-regarded family dentist in Parma and Cleveland.
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