Gum Disease and Heart Health Periodontal disease is found in the gums. Bad breath, swollen, red, or tender gums, loose teeth, and bleeding when brushing, flossing, or eating hard foods are some of the symptoms of periodontal disease. Heart disease is related to conditions like stroke and heart attack. Other signs that your heart might be having problems include chest pains, being short of breath, dizziness, confusion, and fatigue.It is not yet fully proven that the two diseases are affiliated, but research has indicated some similarities in the findings. If this is so, then don't risk it if you have gum disease. Prevention is said to be better than cure, so treat gum disease early on. At we offer quality periodontal services, with our staff always ready to see you through your treatment process. How Periodontal Disease Relates with Heart HealthResearch indicates a connection between gum disease and cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension and heart disease. While our dentists cannot cure heart disease, they can help you prevent oral health complications that may increase your risk. When bacteria in the mouth multiply, they can enter the bloodstream and travel to organs such as the heart and lungs. In these organs, bacteria lead to infections and if not checked, can be fatal. Also, wisdom teeth can cause inflammation in the gum tissue. The inflamed tissue may begin to bleed. Any bleeding indicates that the tiny blood vessels have openings where bacteria can gain access to the bloodstream. It is not a guarantee that when you have gum disease, you will suffer from heart conditions as well. Some people with heart conditions don't have gum disease and have never been diagnosed with it. In some cases, people with a history of gum disease have suffered from heart conditions. Prevention of Gum DiseaseIn its early stages, gum disease is known as gingivitis. This is where you experience signs like swollen, red, bleeding, and tender gums. If gingivitis stays for too long without getting treated, then it can escalate to a more serious gum problem known as periodontitis. Periodontitis will usher in infections to the gum pockets after bacteria has spread under the gum line. This underscores the importance of gum disease prevention. Good oral health is crucial in maintaining healthy gums. Brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing them once a day is a good way to begin with. You can apply the use of mouthwash too. Be sure to use teeth cleaning products with the seal of approval from the American Dental Association. Try and make dental visits for cleanings and checkups, at least twice a year. A healthy diet, plus water with fluoride, is also essential for the health of gums. These practices, if well maintained, will keep your gums away from disease. If your family is genetically prone to gum disease, you need to be vigilant. Take preventive measures by visiting Wildhorse Dental for evaluation and treatment before gum disease escalates to bring further complications including the risk of heart problems. Contact us at 636-537-0447 to schedule an appointment. |
Office HoursMonday: 8:00am-5:00pm Tuesday: 7:30am-4:00pm Wednesday: 7:30am-4:00pm Thursday: 7:30am-3:00pm Fri‑Sun: Closed |
