Oral Health and Heart Disease

The billions of bacteria that live in the mouth unquestionably influence the health of teeth and gums.  Modern dentistry has found that people with periodontitis (erosion of tissue and bone that support the teeth) can release bacteria into the bloodstream when chewing and tooth brushing.  Several species of bacteria that cause periodontitis have been found in the atherosderotic plaque in arteries in the heart and elsewhere.  This plaque can lead to heart attack.

Oral bacteria could also harm blood vessels or cause blood clots by releasing toxins that resemble proteins found in artery walls or the bloodstream.  The immune system’s response to these toxins could harm vessel walls or make blood clot more easily.  It is also possible that inflammation throughout the body, including the arteries, where it can lead to heart attack and stroke.

Medically it makes good sense to brush and floss every day as well as making visits to your Dental Clinique dentist at least twice a year for regular cleanings and oral exams.  This will pay off for your oral health which will benefit your heart as well.