ORAL health and heart disease are connected by the spread of bacteria or other germs from your mouth to other parts of your body through blood circulation.
When these bacteria reach the heart, they can attach themselves to any damaged area and cause inflammation.
This can result in illnesses such as endocarditis, which is an infection of the inner lining of the heart.
According to the American Heart Association, other cardiovascular conditions such as atherosclerosis (clogged arteries) and stroke have also been linked to inflammation caused by oral bacteria.
Patients with chronic gum conditions such as gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease have the highest risk for heart disease caused by poor oral health, particularly if it remains undiagnosed and unmanaged.
Even if you don’t have noticeable gum inflammation, inadequate oral hygiene and accumulated plaque, also known as biofilm, puts you at risk for gum disease.
The bacteria can also migrate into your bloodstream, causing elevated C-reactive protein, a marker for inflammation in the blood vessels. This can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, you may have gum disease, even if it’s in its early stages, if:
- Your gums are red, swollen, and sore to the touch.
- Your gums bleed when you eat, brush or floss.
- You see pus or other signs of infection around the gums and teeth.
- Your gums look as if they are “pulling away” from the teeth.
- You frequently have bad breath or notice a bad taste in your mouth.
- Or some of your teeth are loose or feel as if they are moving away from the other teeth.
If you see one or more of those signs, you would need to see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damages to your body including your heart.
