The Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Health

Gum disease also known as periodontal disease is a common condition affecting nearly half of all American adults. It’s also the No. 1 cause of tooth loss. But that’s not the whole story, says Ginger Rome, DDS, at The Dentists at North Cypress in Houston, Texas. This common condition may also make it likely that you will experience a cardiovascular issue like heart disease, the leading cause of death among both men and women.

The stages of gum disease

Typically gum disease plays out in three stages. The rule of thumb is that the earlier you get treatment, the better the chances of reversing the damage. The stages are gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis.

In the initial stage of gum disease plaque builds up along the gum line. Harmful bacteria from plaque triggers an infection, which results in inflammation.

If left untreated, this stage progresses to advanced stages, which can cause permanent damage to your gums or even life-threatening conditions.

The gum disease and heart connection

The infection from gum disease sets up the perfect storm for the bad bacteria to spread to other parts of your mouth and or your body through the bloodstream. In severe advanced gum disease cases or if gum disease is left untreated, the patient is at an increased risk of developing diabetes, heart disease or having a stroke.

Exacerbates existing heart conditions

The way it works is that when patients with an existing heart issue also suffer from gum disease, the bacteria attacks the existing damaged area, causing inflammation. This scenario may result in an infection in the inner lining of the heart. Inflammation caused by oral bacteria has also been linked to clogged arteries and stroke.

If you have an existing heart condition or heart disease runs in your family, make sure your dentist knows and include it in the medical history that is part of your patient profile.

Bacteria attaches to fatty deposits

Even patients with no known heart conditions should also heed the warning of gum disease. In the case of stroke or heart disease, oral bacteria from gum disease may enter the bloodstream and secure themselves to fatty deposits in heart blood vessels. This condition may lead to blood clots or a heart attack.

Watch for the symptoms of gum disease

The good news about gum disease is that just because you have it, doesn’t mean it’s inevitable that it will result in a heart condition or that you’ll even lose a tooth. If you notice bleeding when brushing your teeth, gum redness or tooth or gum sensitivity, let Dr. Rome know. It may be nothing, but don’t wait to find out.

Here at the Dentists at North Cypress, we offer a menu of periodontal treatment options, including scaling and root planing and antibiotic therapy. If you have concerns about gum disease and your heart health, contact Dr. Rome right away. Call The Dentists at North Cypress today at 281- 664-8100 or request an appointment online.