The Connection Between Dental Health and Cardiovascular Disease
You’ve likely heard that having poor oral health affects more than your teeth and gums. It can have significant impacts on other aspects of your mental and physical well-being. In particular, experiencing poor dental health is strongly linked to cardiovascular issues, such as stroke and heart attack.
Even if you enjoy optimal heart health now, neglecting your dental hygiene and going without cleanings at your Cincinnati dental office could have profound implications. We’ll discuss the link between oral health and cardiovascular disease.
How Poor Dental Health Contributes to Heart Problems
One prevalent theory explaining the connection between oral and cardio health comes down to the role of bacteria that cause gingivitis and gum disease. The problem stems from their transmission from your mouth into your bloodstream and subsequently throughout the body, including your circulatory system. These harmful bacteria attach themselves to blood vessels and cause inflammation.
In terms of cardiovascular health, the inflammation can lead to endocarditis, an infection of the heart’s inner lining. Inflamed tissue due to oral bacteria also increases your risk of atherosclerosis (clogged arteries) and stroke.
Researchers continue to explore the dental-cardio health link more closely. Some have posed other theories to explain the effect of dental problems on cardiovascular disease. One theory points to the body’s immune response instead of bacteria transmission. More specifically, compromised immunity can lead to bacterial inflammation that damages the heart and other organs.
Yet other schools of thought don’t make a direct connection between gum disease and chronic heart problems. Instead, the problem may be attributed to a confounding variable that links the two: smoking. Tobacco use is a risk factor for poor dental health and cardiovascular disease. The mediating factor may also be a lack of healthcare access or low amounts of exercise.
Whether the connection is direct or indirect, most dental experts assert that how you care for your teeth has implications for your cardiovascular fitness. Therefore, prioritizing oral health can help maintain your overall fitness and well-being.
Risk Factors
Even if you brush and floss regularly and maintain your dental check-ups, it pays to be wary of your risk factors for developing heart problems connected to your dental health. For instance, you may be at a heightened risk if you have gingivitis, advanced periodontal disease, or other chronic gum condition. Poor or inconsistent oral hygiene habits can also make you more susceptible.
Prevention is Key
Regardless of your heart health, regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can help protect your mouth and heart. Be sure you’re brushing at least twice daily and floss every day. A professional cleaning from your dentist twice a year will also keep harmful mouth bacteria at bay.
If you have signs of early gum disease, use an American Dental Association (ADA)-approved toothbrush and toothpaste. Add a visit to your dentist, and you may see improvement in your gums after about four weeks.
Healthy Teeth Mean a Happy Heart
When you engage in positive dental hygiene, you not only ensure an attractive smile. You also decrease your likelihood of developing cardiovascular issues due to gum disease and other dental conditions.
The Beckham Square Family Dental team wants to help you take charge of your dental health, making it easier to maintain wellness throughout your body, especially your heart. Take the first step and schedule an appointment with us today for your exam and professional teeth cleaning close to home. Call our office at 513.489.7800 or complete our online form.