Gum disease is linked to heart problems
According to health experts, poor oral health is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. It is also linked with a higher incidence of diabetes and high blood pressure, which also increase your risk for heart disease.
Gum disease is also associated with stroke, which is often driven by the same process that causes the majority of cases of heart attacks: atherosclerosis – buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls.
Symptoms of periodontal disease
Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, refers to inflammation and infection of the tissues that support your teeth. Here are some symptoms to note, according to Mayo Clinic:
- Reddish or purplish gums
- Bleeding
- Soreness
- Bad breath
- Unpleasant taste
- Pain when chewing
- Gums that pull away from your teeth
- Loose teeth
- A change in the way your teeth fit together
What causes gum disease?
According to health experts, buildup of dental plaque is the No. 1 cause of periodontal disease. Plaque contains many different kinds of bacteria that can potentially infect the gums. So, poor oral hygiene can increase your chances of gum disease. In some people, genes might play a role in gum disease by changing the way their immune system responds to the bacteria.
How to prevent gum disease
Regular dental hygiene is the key to preventing gum disease. This involves brushing twice a day for two minutes, replacing your toothbrush after its bristles become worn, floss to remove plaque build-up between teeth, and see a dentist twice a year for a cleaning. If the gums bleed, do not ignore it and see a dentist.
Does treating gum disease reduce the risk of heart disease?
The association between gum disease and other health problems such as heart disease is quite clear. However, there is little evidence at present to prove for sure that dental scaling and cleaning procedures can reduce the risk of heart disease.
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Is gum disease contagious?
The bacteria that cause gum disease can pass from one person to another through repeated and long-term contact through saliva (such as kissing). The chances of contracting gum disease from someone also increases if you drink out of the same cup or share utensils with them.
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