 The
Mouth to Heart Link
There are billions of bacteria found in our mouths. Some of them
are the cause of oral infection, gingivitis
(gum disease) and tooth
decay. But can that same bacteria cause problems with our heart
and blood vessels? There does appear to be a link but it has been
hard to prove.
There are some facts that we do know. Patients with coronary artery
disease seem to have higher levels of bacteria found in periodontal
disease. It has been shown that bacteria from the mouth can travel
to other parts of the body in the blood stream and damage the heart
or linings of blood vessels. It may also be related to blood clots
by releasing toxins that cause the immune system to make the blood
clot more easily. It is also possible that inflammation in the mouth
can also be related to general inflammation in the body, heart and
its arteries which can lead to heart attack or stroke.
Smoking is a risk factor
for oral disease and heart disease and it may be that the combination
will increase the chance of a heart attack. Smoking makes the lining
of the vessels sticky and they attract more of the bacteria leading
to more vessel damage.
We have so much more to learn about this mouth/heart connection
and how oral disease and heart disease are related. The good news
is that gum disease is preventable and can be treated. Imagine if
preventing a heart attack or a stroke can be as simple as brushing
and flossing
your teeth, not smoking,
and treating gum infections as soon as possible.
Visiting your dental
hygienist at least twice a year will not only keep your smile
healthy but your heart, too.
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