Cardiovascular disease is a class of disease that affects the heart and/or blood vessels. It is estimated that more than 80 million people in the United States have one or more forms of cardiovascular disease; these forms include high blood pressure, coronary heart disease (acute heart attack and angina pectoris), stroke, and heart failure. Studies have shown that there is a link between cardiovascular disease and dental periodontal (gum) disease, the chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding dental tissue. Forms of dental gum disease, such as gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontitis (dental bone loss), can be indicators for cardiovascular problems, which is why it is important for individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease to visit a dentist on a regular basis, practice good dental hygiene, and keep their dentist informed of any dental and overall health issues.

How are gum disease and cardiovascular disease connected?
It has been suggested that the inflammatory proteins and bacteria associated with dental gum disease enter a person’s blood stream and can cause various effects on the cardiovascular system. A study published in the Richmond Dental examined the presence of bacteria known to cause dental periodontitis and the thickening of the blood vessel wall typically seen in heart disease. After examining samples from more than 650 dental patients, the Richmond Hill dental researchers concluded that the presence of the same bacteria known to cause dental periodontitis was associated with an increase level of blood vessel thickening. Some Richmond Hill dentists argue that the link between gum disease and heart disease has to do with bacteria in the mouth. People with severe dental disease often experience bleeding gums, and nicks and cuts in the gums can provide a way for bacteria to enter the bloodstream. If the bacteria is not attacked by the immune system in time, it can reach the heart and may cause an infection such as endocarditis or damage other organs.

What can I do to keep my gums and heart health?
Practicing proper dental hygiene is essential to maintaining health gums and teeth. This includes flossing regularly, brushing twice a day with antibacterial toothpaste, and visiting a Richmond Hill dentist at least every six months. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help both your cardiovascular health and your overall health. Obviously, no one wants gum disease. Since prevention of gum disease may also lower your risk of heart disease, it’s a good idea to floss and brush regularly, and to visit a dentist on a regular basis for teeth cleaning and checkups. In some cases, people may also need to take antibiotics before Richmodn Hill dental procedures, to reduce the risk of endocarditis; this is something you should discuss with your dentist.

What do my physician and dentists need to know?
It is important to keep all medical professionals up-to-date on your oral and overall health issues. Inform your physician if you have been diagnosed with a form of periodontal disease or are experiencing any issues with gum inflammation. Likewise, inform your Richmond Hill dentist if you have been diagnosed with any form of cardiovascular disease, have experienced any cardiovascular problems, or have a family history of heart disease.

Author Bio: Dr. David Cheng is a Richmond Hill dentist who’s goal is to educate the public that dental health and overall health are related. Visit the Richmond Hill Dental website for more information.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: gum disease, heart disease, dental, dentist, dentistry