Did you know that oral health is closely linked to heart health? Neglecting your teeth and gums can have serious consequences for your cardiovascular system.
Dr. Aviv Ouanounou, a dentist and associate professor at the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry, and Kelly Van Heugten, a registered nurse and manager of the heart program with Heart & Stroke’s Health Systems team, offered an explanation.
Several studies have shown the connection between heart disease and oral health problems. Poor oral hygiene may lead to gum disease, which allows harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body.
Once this bacteria reaches the heart, it can cause damage and inflammation, in some cases leading to serious problems, including heart attack and stroke.
Everyone has bacteria in their mouth, but they can cause issues like cavities or gum disease, such as gingivitis when plaque builds up on teeth. Smoking, poor nutrition, and skipping dental care increase the risk. People with diabetes are also more prone to gum disease.
Signs of gum disease can start subtly. Early symptoms include redness, swelling, or slight bleeding in the gums when brushing or flossing. If it advances to periodontitis, a more serious stage, you might notice increased bleeding, swollen or tender gums, sensitivity in your teeth, and persistent bad breath.
What could tooth or gum problems do to my heart?
Dr. Ouanounou said, “Over time, bacteria from your mouth can contribute to atherosclerosis, the fatty buildup that clogs arteries and can lead to heart attack. Research has shown that the same bacteria from common oral infections have been found in blockages in heart arteries.”
One serious issue caused by these bacteria is infective endocarditis, a condition in which the inner lining of the heart, known as the endocardium, becomes inflamed. This potentially life-threatening problem can lead to blood clots forming, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke. Immediate treatment with antibiotics is essential to manage this condition effectively.
Kelly Van Heugten said, “People with congenital heart disease or valve disease are at higher risk for endocarditis. Heart surgery also increases your risk.”
“It’s not something many people think about, but the heart and mouth are interconnected. Her cardiac patients would be sent to see their dentist before surgery; some needed extensive dental work to clean up problems that could put their hearts at risk.”
“After heart surgery, it’s crucial to commit to good oral health habits (see below). This is especially true if you have a prosthetic implant such as a valve replacement, which can attract bacteria.”
Protecting your heart begins with maintaining good oral hygiene
This involves brushing your teeth thoroughly twice daily, flossing daily, and visiting a dental professional regularly. A clean and healthy mouth can help prevent other health issues.
Additionally, it’s vital to inform your dental professional about any changes in your health. In some cases, preventive antibiotics may be necessary before dental procedures that could cause bleeding.
Your dentist will evaluate your situation, using clinical judgment and guidelines, such as those from the Canadian Dental Association, to recommend the best approach for your care.
Kelly adds, “Connecting your dentist to your other healthcare providers can also be helpful. You need to make sure that the dentist can potentially interact with your cardiologist or possibly your pharmacist.”
Source: Tech Explorist
