Have you ever felt that brushing your teeth twice a day isn’t that important? Whether you’re rushing out the door or hurrying to bed, dental hygiene can lose its importance amid other life priorities. But what if brushing your teeth could decrease your risk for the top cause of death in the world? Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the most common causes of death worldwide. Surprisingly, research has shown a correlation between oral and heart health.

Most significantly, periodontal disease has been linked with an increased risk of heart disease, beginning with plaque buildup. In this article, we’ll examine data on the correlation between oral and heart health, how gingivitis initiates the degradation process, the importance of guarding against periodontal disease, its relationship to heart health, and how to reduce your CVD risk through oral care.

Correlation Between Oral and Heart Health  

Cardiovascular disease was first linked to periodontal disease in 1989. Large bodies of research maintain a correlation between oral and heart health. One study showed that individuals with periodontitis were twice as likely to develop coronary artery disease as those with healthy gums. Some theories suggest that inflammation allows oral bacteria to access the bloodstream and form mini clots in blood vessels.

While research has indicated that inflammation is a driving force behind cardiovascular disease, the exact connection is still unknown. However, multiple studies over the past 20+ years have shown an undeniable association between oral and heart health. Unfortunately, over half of the people worldwide have periodontal disease, while 19% of the global population experience severe periodontal disease. Whether periodontal disease personally affects you or not, choosing to prioritize your oral health can reduce your cardiovascular risk.

Gum Changes That Hint at Heart Risk

Many people are aware that not brushing their teeth can lead to cavities. But have you considered how this affects your gums? Gingivitis is a gum disease caused by plaque buildup that often leads to periodontal disease. Gum disease is evidenced by red, inflamed gums and can easily go unnoticed by a person. Gingivitis comes in multiple forms, including nutritional, hormonal, drug, and plaque-induced gingivitis, with plaque being the most common.

Plaque buildup is not the only influencing factor for gingivitis. Smoking, crowded teeth, dry mouth, and genetic factors can put someone at a higher risk for gingivitis. While gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease and tooth loss, gum disease does not always end this way. Fortunately, gingivitis is reversible if you have consistent, regular oral hygiene and dental visits. Gingivitis may not seem very serious, but it is the first warning sign of the correlation between oral and heart health.

Dangers of Periodontal Disease

The key to avoiding periodontal disease is to stop it before it gets there. Periodontal disease is an extreme gum disease and is commonly the result of plaque buildup from poor oral hygiene. Gingivitis paired with limited oral care, poor nutrition, and smoking can increase the risk of periodontal disease. Ongoing swelling and signs of pus could indicate that your gingivitis is getting worse. Common symptoms of periodontitis include swollen, bleeding gums, painful chewing, and persistent bad breath.

If you are experiencing these types of symptoms, it is probably time to see a dentist. Periodontal disease is the main contributor to the correlation between oral and heart health. Living with untreated periodontal disease can lead to receding and the breakdown of the gums. Periodontal disease also increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. At its worst, periodontal disease can result in tooth loss and increased risk for cardiovascular disease.  

How the Mouth Gets the Heart in Trouble

At first glance, it may be hard to comprehend how the health of your teeth can harm your heart. However, even minor oral inflammation can make it easy for bacteria to access the bloodstream, leading to the heart. This is how infection in your teeth can be found in your heart or get stuck to your blood vessels. While periodontal disease has not directly led to a heart attack or stroke, it still can damage your cardiovascular system.

A study discovered oral bacteria in 75% of the analyzed atherosclerotic plaque, demonstrating the pervasiveness of oral bacteria. Evidence shows a relationship between periodontal disease and heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and atrial fibrosis. Keeping periodontal-caused inflammation and bacterial growth under control is the key to reducing the risk of heart disease.

The Common Solution: Tooth Brushing

The correlation between oral and heart health is evident. Fortunately, the early stages of periodontal disease can be easily managed if combated with consistent, regular oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day and flossing at least once can help remove and prevent plaque, ensuring clear, healthy gums. Regular dentist visits and brushing once a day reduced cardiovascular risk by 14% and 9%. Perhaps you’re wondering why you need to see a dentist if you’re a faithful brusher?

Hardened plaque found under the gumline can turn into tartar, and can only be removed by a professional. Although good dental hygiene can’t single-handedly prevent heart disease, it can reduce the risk of heart disease.

Conclusion

Many times, people don’t take care of their health until it becomes a pressing concern. The relationship between oral and heart health is so well known; CVD patients worldwide are warned of the impact of oral health. Studies have shown a mouth-heart correlation in adolescents, too, indicating that it’s not just a problem for older adults. What if you could get ahead of the hospital visit by committing to prioritizing your oral health?

Recognizing the signs of gingivitis and the progression of periodontal disease can help inform you of your risk of cardiovascular disease. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing, along with regular dental appointments, is how to avoid oral-influenced heart problems. Let’s protect our heart health and commit to regular oral hygiene and dentist visits today! If you want to take the first step, Augusta Family Dental has convenient locations across the Augusta metropolitan area ready to serve you. Schedule an appointment with us today!