Dental Problems and How They Can Affect Your Heart
A healthy and attractive smile helps boost your confidence during social interactions. But the condition of your oral health can affect more than the appearance of your smile.
When not treated, dental issues such as cavities and gum disease can lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. If you have a history of heart conditions, seeing the dentist regularly so they can closely monitor your oral health helps.
Learn more about how dental problems can impact your heart's health.
Bleeding Gums and Heart Diseases
Poor oral hygiene habits increase the risk of developing gum disease. Gum disease can cause the gums to turn red, swell, and become more sensitive. The gums can bleed easily when flossing and brushing or during dental hygiene cleanings.
- Studies suggest that chronic inflammation, such as from untreated gum disease, could raise the chances of heart disease, as plaque builds up in the arteries of the heart and triggers blood clots.
- The bacteria from the infected gums can travel to the bloodstream and reach the inner lining of the heart. Bacteria buildup in these areas can cause the heart valves to malfunction and make a person more susceptible to heart disease.
- Researchers have also found bacteria coming from the mouth in the blood vessels of stroke patients. The bacteria involved are linked to endocarditis, an infection of the walls, valves, or muscles of the heart.
Untreated Cavities and Heart Problems
Cavities that don’t get treated can infect the gums and cause periodontal disease.
Gum disease can cause the gums to pull back from the teeth, opening gaps and spaces where harmful bacteria can further grow and accumulate. These bacteria can be tough to remove, as brushing and flossing won’t reach them. The bacteria can remain and find their way to the heart.
- The bacteria entering the arteries of the heart can cause them to harden, triggering atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis can interfere with normal blood flow, which can lead to heart diseases and strokes.
- According to a study, people with untreated dental infections are more likely to develop cardiovascular problems than those who had their dental infections treated.
- In a separate research, it was also found that oral health issues were associated with increased mortality rates as well as an increased risk of life-threatening diseases like cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
- Aside from these, gum and heart diseases also share other risk factors, such as smoking and lack of physical activity.
Protect Your Teeth and Heart With a Reinforced Dental Hygiene Routine
Whether or not you’re at an increased risk of developing heart conditions, it’s good to invest in a solid dental care routine to improve your oral health and quality of life.
Gum disease, decay, and cavities can cause discomfort. However, they can be avoided by staying proactive about your oral health. Even though regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits cannot treat heart problems, they can contribute to reducing your risks and keeping your heart healthy.
Letting your dentist know if you have a heart condition and informing your primary physician if you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease is essential. Your doctors need to know about any changes in your health, routine, or lifestyle, such as taking new medications.
If you’re concerned about dental and heart health, visit the dentist so they can customize a dental care plan for you. If you need a dental consultation in Manitoba, MB, please get in touch with us at Aqua Dental Wellness. Our staff is glad to assist you in finding a convenient schedule.