February is both National Dental Health Month and National Heart Month, and the fact that the two are celebrated in the same month couldn’t be more perfect. Did you know there are strong links between heart health and oral health? In this post, we’re going to look at what those links are.
The link between oral health and heart disease
There is a strong and well-established link between gum disease and heart disease. People with gum disease are two to three times more likely to experience a heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular event. There’s also evidence that infected and abscessed teeth are strongly linked to cardiovascular disease. But how are oral health and heart health linked? More research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms, but the prevailing theory is that bacteria is the culprit.
The mouth is designed to be a closed environment. When the teeth and gums are healthy, they are an effective barrier that keeps out unwanted pathogens. When they are diseased, that “seal” may be broken, allowing bacteria into the bloodstream. The bacteria may then cause infections throughout the body. This bacteria may reach the heart and attach to damaged areas, leading to inflammation. Inflammation, which is a necessary response in the body to fight infections and heal injuries, can lead to chronic disease over time, including cardiovascular disease.
Warning signs to look for
Because it’s believed that bacteria can lead to inflammation which can in turn lead to heart disease, it’s important to maintain the integrity of the barrier in your mouth so bacteria can’t enter your system. Be sure to brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly, and look out for the following warning signs of gum disease and abscessed teeth:
- Gums bleed when brushed or flossed (even a little)
- Gums are red, tender, or swollen
- Gums are receding from the teeth
- Pus around gums and teeth
- Throbbing, persistent toothache, especially when accompanied by fever
- Swelling in face or cheek near affected tooth
- Tooth feels like it’s coming loose
- Persistent foul breath or foul taste in the mouth
- Salty, foul smelling fluid in the mouth (when abscessed tooth ruptures)
If you notice any of these signs, visit your dentist right away. The good news is that when detected early, gum inflammation can easily be reversed with simple, consistent brushing and flossing habits (more advanced gum inflammation or gum disease may need to be treated by a periodontist). An abscessed tooth, which may need to be treated by an endodontist, will be removed and typically accompanied by a course of antibiotics.
How your dentist can save your life
Though the mechanisms aren’t known, what’s clear is that there’s a link between heart health and oral health. Taking care of your oral health is a smart step that not only keeps your teeth and gums in good shape, but could impact your heart health, too. In addition to keeping up good oral hygiene habits at home, be sure to discuss any unusual symptoms with your dentist at your next visit. Who knows; by taking care of your oral health, they may be saving your life!
Learn more about our services and dental practice on our website. We can help keep you and your mouth healthy!