Many people are unaware that their gum health can affect more than just their smile. Modern research has shown a strong connection between periodontal disease and serious health problems like heart disease and stroke.
While it might seem surprising, your gum infection can cause a possible risk of heart disease. This guide explores why gum disease symptoms are alarming for your heart health and how to reduce this risk.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is an infection of your teeth-supporting tissues. Its symptoms include swollen, bleeding gums and bad breath. If left untreated, it can progress into more serious forms, causing tooth loss. It also increases the risk of systemic health issues, including heart disease and stroke.
Gum infection is caused by a buildup of bacteria-made plaque. When plaque is not cleaned through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which only a dentist or periodontist can remove. This creates an environment where harmful bacteria thrive, leading to infection and inflammation of the gums.
Let’s find out how gum disease in Springfield, MO, can lead to heart disease or stroke and how to prevent it.
The Link Between Periodontal Disease and Heart Disease
Recent studies have shown that the bacteria responsible for periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream through the gums. Once in the bloodstream, these bacteria can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, a leading cause of cardiovascular disease. This is often referred to as a “dental heart attack.”
Over time, this plaque buildup narrows the arteries, restricting blood flow and increasing your risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other severe cardiovascular conditions.
In fact, people with gum infection are twice as likely to suffer from heart disease compared to those with healthy gums. While researchers are still studying the full extent of the relationship, it is clear that good oral hygiene is an essential factor in protecting your heart.
Gum Disease And Stroke Risk
The connection between periodontitis and stroke risk is also becoming clearer. The inflammation caused by periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease can increase the likelihood of a stroke. This happens because the bacteria from the gums can travel to other parts of the body, including the brain, leading to dangerous conditions such as a stroke.
Furthermore, people with severe periodontitis are at an increased risk of blood clots, which can block blood vessels in the brain and trigger a stroke. You can reduce the chances of developing such life-threatening conditions by managing gum and heart disease symptoms.
Periodontal Disease Treatment Options
If you already have gum disease in Springfield, MO, you should seek expert help immediately. Treatment for periodontal disease includes professional cleaning to remove tartar, scaling and root planing to smooth the roots of the teeth, and sometimes antibiotics to clear up infections. In more severe cases, surgery may be required.
Preventing Gum Disease & Protecting Your Heart
Periodontitis and heart disease can both be prevented with the proper steps. Here are a few tips for maintaining healthy gums and a healthy heart:
- Brush and Floss Regularly: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily removes plaque buildup that can lead to gum infection. Make sure to use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups are key to identifying and treating periodontal disease symptoms early. Your dentist or periodontist can clean tartar buildup and recommend the best treatment options.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce inflammation and protect both your gums and heart. Avoid sugary foods that contribute to plaque buildup.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for both gum infection and heart disease. If you smoke, consider quitting to improve your oral and overall health.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress can affect both your gums and heart. Practice stress-reducing activities like exercise, meditation, or spending time outdoors to improve your health.
Take Control Of Your Health Today
By addressing periodontal disease treatment early, you can prevent the spread of bacteria to other parts of the body, reducing your risk of heart disease and stroke. If you have concerns about periodontal disease in Springfield, contact Kelly Dental. Here, we care about your overall health, not just your smile.
Call us today or schedule a same-day appointment. Let us work together to keep your gums and heart healthy for years.