Did you know that poor oral health can increase your risk of heart disease? Research has uncovered a strong connection between gum disease and cardiovascular issues, with inflammation playing a crucial role. While brushing and flossing alone won’t prevent heart disease, maintaining good oral hygiene can help support overall heart health. In this article, we’ll explore how oral health affects heart disease risk and share expert tips for improving both your oral and heart health.

What is the Connection Between Oral Health and Heart Disease?

According to Harvard Health, people with gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) have two to three times the risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiovascular event. The bacteria from gum disease may cause inflammation not just in the mouth, but throughout the body, including the arteries. Gum disease causes inflammation in the gums, which can lead to bacteria entering the bloodstream. These bacteria can then travel to the heart, where they may contribute to the development of plaque in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Over time, this plaque hardens, narrowing the arteries and raising the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems.

Studies and Findings on Gum Disease and Heart Disease Risk

Recent studies have explored the direct impact of gum disease on heart health:

• Periodontal disease and atherosclerosis: Research has shown that the same bacteria found in gum infections are often present in arterial plaque. This suggests a direct link between oral bacteria and heart disease. The chronic inflammation caused by gum disease may be one of the reasons for this connection.
• Risk prediction: Studies have revealed that the presence of gum disease can predict heart disease risk just as effectively as traditional factors like cholesterol levels. A study published in National Library of Medicine found that individuals who rarely brush their teeth  were 70% more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than those who brushed at least twice a day. This research underscores the critical role oral hygiene plays in heart health.

The Role of Dental Check–ups in Preventing Heart Disease:

Regular dental exams and professional cleanings are key to preventing gum disease. Routine visits to the dentist help identify potential issues before they worsen and contribute to heart problems. Preventative dental care, combined with daily brushing and flossing, can significantly reduce the risk of both gum disease and heart disease.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect both your teeth and heart.

Tips for Maintaining Good oral Health:

• Brush Twice a Day with Fluoride Toothpaste. Brushing removes plaque and bacteria while fluoride strengthens enamel, preventing decay. Brush for 2 minutes and replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months.
• Floss Daily to Remove Plaque Between Teeth. Flossing removes plaque between teeth that brushing misses, preventing gum disease and cavities.
• Avoid Tobacco Products. Tobacco increases the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer.
• Eat a Balanced Diet with Fruits, Vegetables, Lean Proteins, and Whole Grains. Include calcium-rich foods like dairy and plenty leafy greens. Limit sugary foods and drinks. A healthy diet strengthens teeth and gums, and limits decay-causing sugars.

Can Preventing Gum Disease Prevent Heart Disease?

While proper oral hygiene is crucial for preventing gum disease and promoting overall health, it cannot replace other heart disease prevention measures. If you’re at risk for heart disease, you should also focus on traditional cardiovascular health practices:

• Manage weight: Losing weight, especially if you are overweight or obese, can reduce your heart disease risk.
• Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can support both heart and oral health.
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and supports heart health.
• Avoid smoking: Tobacco use increases the risk of gum disease and cardiovascular issues.
• Control conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure: These conditions are risk factors for both gum disease and heart disease. Get regular check-ups. Both dental and medical check-ups are essential for early detection of gum disease and heart problems.

Warning Signs of Gum Disease

Recognising the early signs of gum disease can prevent it from worsening and affecting heart health. Symptoms to watch for include:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
• Loose or separating teeth
• Painful gums when brushing or flossing

If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to visit a dentist for diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion:

The connection between oral health and cardiovascular disease highlights the importance of maintaining both a healthy heart and healthy gums. While brushing your teeth won’t replace regular cardiovascular care, it is a valuable step toward heart health. By addressing both oral and heart health simultaneously, you can significantly improve your quality of life and reduce your risk of severe health issues.

References:

1. Advanced Dental Implant and TMJ Center. (n.d.). Periodontal disease and heart disease. Retrieved from https://www.advanceddentaltmj.com/periodontal-disease-and-heart-disease/
2. Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Does dental health affect your heart? Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/podcasts/love-your-heart/does-dental-health-affect-your-heart
3. Fedhealth. (2020). Be heart smart. Retrieved from https://www.fedhealth.co.za/articles/be-heart-smart/
4. Harvard Health Publishing. (2021). Gum disease and heart disease: The common thread. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/gum-disease-and-heart-disease-the-common-thread#:~:text=Known%20as%20atherosclerosis%2C%20this%20fatty,or%20other%20serious%20cardiovascular%20event.
5. Kopecky, S. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic explains coronary artery disease [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycX1BPOwGwM&t=10s
6. Mayo Clinic. (2024). Arteriosclerosis/atherosclerosis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriosclerosis-atherosclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350569
7. Sanlam Reality. (2022). The surprising impact your oral health has on the rest of your body. Retrieved from https://www.sanlamreality.co.za/wealth-sense/oral-health-and-your-body/