Your Heart And Your Gums
A recent study in Belgium showed that 91% of heart
disease patients suffer from gum disease, compared
to only 66% of healthy people. Although research
indicates that gum disease is a significant risk
factor in developing heart problems, the exact
reason remains unknown.
However, there are several theories linking gum
disease with heart problems, for example it is
possible that the same people who take very little
exercise, have a poor diet, and do not look after
their bodies are developing both conditions independently.
On the other hand, if you have gum disease, bacteria
from your mouth can drift into your bloodstream
and settle in your blood vessels and thus onto
your heart valves, causing infection, damage and
blockages. This reduces blood circulation to vital
organs and causes heart conditions and strokes.
Alternatively, if your gums are under attack from
disease, your immune system is constantly fighting
an ongoing infection. The substances being used
to fight the infection enter the bloodstream and
whilst most initiate repairs of the infected area,
others can cause damage to other parts of your
body. An infection like gum disease can therefore
have far reaching effects on general health, and
particularly the health of your heart and blood
vessels.
Apart from taking regular exercise, eating sensibly
and making sure that you clean your teeth properly
all the time, you should see your dentist or hygienist
regularly to make sure that you do not have gum
disease which could be affecting your heart and
general health.
Further Reading
1. Pussinen PJ, Alfthan G, Tuomilehto J, Asikainen
S, Jousilahti P
Eur J Cardiovasc Prev Rehabil. 2004 Oct;11(5) 408-11
2. Saremi A, Nelson
RG, Tulloch-Reid M, Hanson RL, Sievers ML, Taylor
GW,ShlossmanM, BennettPH, Genco
R, Knowler WC
DIABETES CARE. 2005 Jan 28 (1) 27-32
3. Hung HC, Joshipura KJ, Colditz G, Manson JE, Rimm EB, Speizer FE, Willett
WC
J Public Health Dent.2004 Fall;64(4);209-15
4. Geerts SO,Legrand V,Charpentier J,Albert A,Rompen EH
J Periodontol.2004Sep;75(9);1274-80
5. ElterJR, ChampagneCM, Offenbacher S, Beck JD
J Periodontol 2004 Jun;75(6);782-90
