Periodontal Disease and Your Heart: The Connection Explained
Recent research has shown a significant correlation between periodontal disease and coronary artery disease. In fact, people with gum disease are nearly twice as likely as those with healthy teeth to suffer from heart disease.
- Dangers of Gum Disease
When oral bacteria enter the bloodstream, they can attach to fatty plaque in the coronary arteries.Fatty proteins that build up on the walls of coronary arteries can cause them to thicken.Normal blood flow is restricted by clots, which limits the amount of nutrients and oxygen needed for the heart to function properly.Blood clots and limited blood flow can result in a heart attack.
The inflammation caused by periodontal disease also causes the liver to produce C-reactive proteins, which are a predictor for an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Individuals with high levels of oral bacteria may also have weakened immune systems as well as an inadequate inflammatory response. As a result, individuals with periodontal disease may induce vascular effects that have been shown to contribute to heart disease.
- Treatment
Due to the connection between periodontal disease and heart disease, anyone who experiences the symptoms of gum disease should seek immediate treatment from their dentist or periodontist.After a thorough examination, including x-rays and exams of teeth, gums, and the jawbone, the periodontist can begin appropriate treatment.Treatment typically includes scaling and root planing to remove tartar from gum pockets. Your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics.
Do you have symptoms of periodontal disease? If so, contact the dentists of Belmont Dental Group at (617) 209-4058. We offer a full range of dental services in the Belmont and Cambridge areas. For your comfort, we also offer sedation dentistry, and we pride ourselves on our comprehensive, gentle dental care.
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