Is your mouth really connected to your
heart? It might sound surprising, but skipping good oral care doesn’t just
affect your teeth and gums. Your heart could be in danger, too.
You might think: A little plaque buildup
or inflamed gums can’t possibly harm my heart, right? Think again.
First, people with moderate or advanced
gum disease face a higher risk of developing heart disease than those with
healthy gums.
Bacteria and germs from your mouth can
enter your bloodstream and affect your heart. When they reach the heart, they
can stick to damaged areas, causing inflammation. According to Mayo Clinic,
this may lead to conditions like endocarditis, an infection of the heart’s
inner lining. The American Heart Association also links oral bacteria to other
heart problems, such as atherosclerosis (clogged arteries) and strokes, due to
inflammation.
Second, the state of your oral health can
alert doctors to potential health problems, including heart-related conditions.
If you're planning to book a consultation
with our dentist in Lynnwood, WA,
it's important to disclose any medical conditions you may have, as well as any
medications or supplements you are taking. This will help our dentist in Lynnwood, WA, identify any
potential risks during your dental treatment.
Warning signs
According to the American Association of
Periodontology (AAP), you may have gum disease, even in its early stages, if
you notice the following symptoms:
●
Your gums are red, swollen, and tender
●
Your gums bleed when eating, brushing, or
flossing
●
You see pus or other signs of infection around
your gums and teeth
●
Your gums appear to be receding
●
You frequently have bad breath or a lingering bad
taste in your mouth
●
Some of your teeth are loose.
Who is at risk?
People with gum issues like gingivitis or
advanced periodontal disease are at a higher risk of heart disease, especially
if these conditions are undiagnosed or untreated. Bacteria from gum infections
can enter the bloodstream, stick to blood vessels, and raise the risk of
cardiovascular problems. Even without visible gum inflammation, poor oral
hygiene and plaque buildup can lead to gum disease. These bacteria can also
travel into the blood, raising C-reactive protein levels, a sign of blood
vessel inflammation, which increases the chances of heart disease and stroke.
Our reliable dentist in Lynnwood, WA advises regular dental check-ups and
cleanings, as well as practicing proper oral hygiene at home. Call us at (425)
778 5665.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475
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