Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common oral health concerns, and it is the leading cause of tooth loss for adults over the age of 35. While many people know that gum disease can dramatically impact oral health, they aren’t always aware that periodontal disease is also linked to a number of whole body health concerns like heart disease. February is Heart Disease Awareness Month and Gum Disease Awareness Month, so there’s no time like the present to explore the ways that poor oral health can increase risk for cardiovascular disease.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease occurs when the germs in the plaque and tartar on teeth damages the supportive soft tissue and alveolar bone structures that anchor teeth into the jawbone. The acidic plaque and tartar buildup can eat through soft tissue, leading to receding gums, weakened bone structure, infection, and other serious repercussions.
How Does that Increase Risk for Heart Disease?
In addition to negatively impacting oral health, gum disease also increases the risk for heart disease by about 20%, according to a 2014 study published in the Journal of the Indian Society of Periodontology. Other studies indicate that, in patients diagnosed with both periodontal disease and heart disease, following treatment plans to maintain oral health decreases heart health risks and the potential for cardiac events as well as lowering the cost of treating heart disease. Researchers can see a correlation between inflammation from gum disease and the systemic blockage of blood vessels that leads to cardiovascular diseases. Correlation is not causation, and additional research is necessary to determine the exact link between these two conditions. However, both the American Dental Association and the American Heart Association have released statements acknowledging that some connection between the two diseases does exist.
How Can I Lower My Risk?
The American Dental Association and American Heart Association recommend informing your dentist if you have heart disease and letting your general practitioner and/or heart health specialist know if you have gum disease. Keeping all of your healthcare providers informed means you are more likely to receive combined care that will address the needs of your oral and overall health simultaneously, improving treatment outcomes.
Meet the McCarl Dental Group
In Millersville, MD the trusted family dentist and team at McCarl Dental Group have offered reliable care to ensure our patients achieve and maintain their healthiest smiles. Even more importantly, our knowledgeable smile care specialists are committed to helping people better understand the impact of oral health on their overall wellbeing. Whether you’re looking for a new dentist for your family or you’re in need of help to get periodontal disease under control, the McCarl Dental Group team is here to help. Just give us a call to schedule an appointment today.