Blog Layout

The Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease | What to Know

Sep 29, 2021

Over the past few years, researchers have been trying to figure out the relationship between gum disease and heart disease. Although these conditions don't seem to have much in common, new evidence suggests otherwise. So how does oral health affect the heart?

 

One common theory is that the bacteria present in the mouths of patients suffering from gum disease travels through the body, triggering inflammation in the heart’s vessels, thus leading to heart disease.

 

According to a study by the CDC, nearly 50% of Americans over 30 years old and 70% of people over the age of 65 have gum disease.



What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also called periodontitis, is caused by bacterial growth in your mouth. If not treated, it can lead to the destruction of gum tissue and loss of teeth.

 

In some cases, gum disease is caused by gingivitis (gum inflammation). Bacteria cause gum inflammation in plaque. When these bacteria build-up, they cause your gums to become inflamed. You might even experience gum bleeding when brushing your teeth.

 

In its early stages, gum disease does not affect the structural integrity of your teeth or cause any irreversible tissue damage. But, in time, the bacteria in the plaque release acids that attack your tooth’s enamel, causing tooth decay.

 

After about 72 hours, plaque hardens into tartar, which forms along the baseline of your gums. Tartar is much harder to clean, and in time, it causes irritation and inflammation in your gums, thus leading to gingivitis.

 

If gingivitis develops into gum disease, the inner layer of the gum pulls away from the teeth, forming pockets. These pockets then fill up with debris from food and may become infected.

 

The toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque break down the teeth and the connective tissue that holds teeth in place. As the disease progresses, the pockets grow deeper, thus weakening the teeth. In time, tooth loss occurs.


Causes of Gum Disease

●      Poor oral hygiene: Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing or flossing your teeth, can promote the development of gum disease.

●      Hormonal changes: Some hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, and puberty, make the gums more sensitive. This, coupled with poor oral hygiene, can lead to the development of gum disease.

●      Bad habits: Bad habits, such as excessive alcohol consumption and smoking, can make it harder for the gums to repair themselves. This leaves your gums susceptible to infections.

●      Certain medications: Some medications reduce the flow of saliva. Saliva is known to have protective properties on your gums and teeth. Other medications such as anti-convulsion drugs like Dilantin can also cause abnormal growth of gum tissue, increasing your risk of developing gum disease.

●      Illnesses: Diseases like cancer and HIV affect your immune system, thus affecting the condition of your gums. Other illnesses like diabetes can also play a role in the development of gum disease. This is because diabetes limits your body’s ability to use blood sugar. The effect is a higher possibility of developing infections.

●      Family history: If you have a family history of developing dental disease, you might be more likely to contract gum disease.


Symptoms of Gum Disease

Gum disease progresses slowly. Even in its late stages, it’s still relatively painless and produces only a few obvious signs. Although the condition is mostly subtle, it does not come without a few warning signs. Some of the most common symptoms of gum disease include:


●      Bleeding gums after brushing your teeth

●      Reseeding gums

●      Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums

●      Persistent bad taste or bad breath in the mouth

●      Red, swollen gums

 

In some cases, you might have gum disease and still lack any observable symptoms; in some patients, gum disease is limited to a few teeth, such as the molars. It is, therefore, advisable that you visit a dentist regularly to determine whether you have gum disease.


Diagnosis of Gum Disease

At Patriot Family Dental in Clarksville, TN, we diagnose gum disease by performing a dental exam. During the dental exam, we check the following:


●      Gum bleeding, firmness, pocket depth, and swelling

●      Tooth movement and sensitivity

●      Proper tooth alignment

●      Your jawbone (we check your jawbone to detect any changes in the bones surrounding your teeth)


Treatment of Gum Disease

The treatment of gum disease aims to promote the reattachment of healthy gums to teeth and reduce swelling, depth of pockets, and the possibility of infection.

 

The form of treatment you receive depends on the disease's stage and your overall health.

 

Treatment options range from nonsurgical therapies aimed at controlling bacterial growth to surgical procedures aimed at restoring supportive tissues.


How to Prevent Gum Disease

You can prevent and control gum disease effectively by practicing proper dental hygiene. It would be best if you brushed your teeth at least twice a day. It would be best to floss every day to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth and gums.


The Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease

●      Inflammation of blood vessels in the heart: Various research done by medical professionals shows a link between gum disease and the inflammation that mostly precedes strokes, heart attacks, and sudden vascular events. Gum disease also worsens cardiovascular disease in patients who have both conditions. According to a study done in 2014, patients who received adequate dental care for gum disease had their costs for cardiovascular treatment cut by 10–40%. This shows a direct relationship between gum and heart disease.

●      Valve infections in the heart: Gum disease poses significant risks for patients with valve disease. The bacteria that cause gum disease can cross into your bloodstream and enter the heart. Once there, it can affect the already vulnerable heart valves.


Cardiovascular Diseases Linked to Gum Disease

Endocarditis

If you are suffering from endocarditis, you are at a higher risk of developing infections in the inner lining of your heart. You must, therefore, practice good oral hygiene daily. Traditionally, patients with this condition were advised to take preventive antibiotics before any dental procedures. But, nowadays, only patients who are at higher risk take antibiotics. Your doctor can tell you if you are in the high-risk group. Also, if you are scheduled for valve surgery, you should practice extensive dental hygiene. This is because bacteria from gum disease can cause endocarditis.

Angina

Patients with angina are mostly treated with calcium channel blockers. Calcium channel blockers might cause gum overgrowth, which might, in turn, promote the development of gum disease. Patients whose angina is stable can undergo basic dental procedures. However, patients with unstable or accelerating angina should not undergo any unnecessary dental procedures. To minimize the risk of cardiac arrest, patients with angina should have their dental procedures done in hospitals with heart-monitoring equipment.

Heart attack

If you have a heart attack, you should wait at least six months before undergoing extensive dental procedures. You can, however, get a dental cleaning. But, as a precaution, you should ask your dentist to have oxygen and nitroglycerin in case of an emergency.

Stroke

Patients being treated for strokes are mainly given anticoagulants. Anticoagulants can result in excessive bleeding during extensive dental procedures. Also, in some cases, a stroke limits your ability to produce enough saliva. This, in turn, promotes the development of gum disease—and the risks involved as far as your heart is concerned.


The Link Between Diabetes and Oral Health Problems

People with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease. The linking factor is blood sugar. If blood sugar levels are poorly controlled, you are more likely to develop gum disease.

 

When left uncontrolled, diabetes weakens your white blood cells, which are your body's primary defense against bacterial infections.

Oral Problems Linked to Diabetes


●      Gum inflammation and periodontitis: Apart from weakening your defense blood cells, high blood sugar also causes vessels to thicken. This severely limits the free movement of waste and nutrients to and from your body tissues. The effect of these circumstances is your body’s inability to fight off infections in your mouth. Therefore, people with diabetes may experience more severe forms of gum disease.

●      Dry mouth: Uncontrolled diabetes decreases the flow of saliva, causing dry mouth. A dry mouth then leads to ulcers, soreness, infections, and tooth decay.

●      Slow healing of oral tissue: Uncontrolled diabetes leads to poor blood flow in the mouth. Diabetic patients who have undergone dental procedures heal slowly due to a lack of essential nutrients in the affected tissue.

●      Thrush: People with diabetes are more susceptible to fungal infections in the mouth. Diabetics often have high sugar levels in their saliva. The fungus thrives on this sugar.

 

Proper dental hygiene is essential, not just for your mouth but your heart as well. The best way to prevent your underlying heart condition from escalating is by practicing proper dental hygiene.

 

 

 

When it comes to your health, you can never be too careful. If you have experienced any of the symptoms mentioned above, schedule an appointment with us today at Patriot Family Dental in Clarksville, TN, and stay on top of your dental hygiene.

 

Natural Toothache Relief | Patriot Family Dental
01 Mar, 2024
With its constant pain and discomfort, a toothache can be an unwelcome interruption that disrupts our daily lives. Finding relief becomes an urgent priority, whether it's a dull ache, sensitivity to heat or cold, or sharp, stabbing pain. While the allure of natural remedies tempts us to seek solace at home, understanding when to transition from DIY solutions to professional intervention is paramount.
Tooth Abscess | Patriot Family Dental
05 Feb, 2024
Did you know that experiencing persistent tooth pain often conceals a deeper issue—a tooth abscess? This occurs when a bacterial infection establishes a pocket of pus beneath the tooth, causing throbbing pain. These abscesses can develop in different parts of the tooth, including the soft tissue inside (the pulp), the root, and the gums.
Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments | Patriot Family Dental
02 Jan, 2024
Cosmetic dentistry is a specialty area focused on improving smile aesthetics. As it greatly enhances one's oral look and self-confidence, cosmetic dentistry has become increasingly popular. This area of dentistry is dedicated to correcting imperfections, reestablishing symmetry, and creating a smile that may truly make a person proud.
Gum Line | Patriot Family Dental
04 Dec, 2023
Your smile is your most valuable accessory because it reflects your confidence and personality. In the pursuit of a perfect smile, people often focus on teeth whitening, braces, or veneers, but what about the often-overlooked hero of your smile? You know—your gum line?
Tounge | Patriot Family Dental
02 Nov, 2023
Our tongue is one of those things that we take for granted. However, it’s an amazing and remarkable muscular organ that could be considered one of the most important parts of the body. It helps you not only to chew, taste, and enjoy food but also assists with digestion and speech. You can even pull off the toughest tongue twister with it.
Hygienist | Patriot Family Dental
By Allison Cazano 05 Oct, 2023
When it comes to dental care, people often overlook the role of a dental hygienist. As licensed professionals, they have extensive knowledge of all things dental. Their scope of practice is expansive, performing tasks ranging from taking patient vitals to assessing dental health needs.
Tooth Enamel
07 Sep, 2023
Dental enamel is the ultimate protective outer layer of your teeth against cavities or any damage caused when you chew, bite, or grind. It is the hardest substance in the human body, even stronger than bone.
Oil Pulling | Patriot Family Dentistry
02 Aug, 2023
Oil pulling is an ancient technique used to promote oral health and hygiene. It involves swishing oil in your mouth for an extended period and is said to remove bacteria and toxins from the mouth, resulting in a healthier mouth and fresher breath.
Mouthwash | Patriot Family Dental
05 Jul, 2023
Mouthwash is usually seen as the most popular solution for bad breath. However, mouthwash serves a purpose beyond freshening breath. It might be a crucial aid in keeping teeth strong and healthy.
how sugar effect teeth
01 Jun, 2023
Sugar is ubiquitous in our modern diet, found in nearly everything we eat and drink. While we all know that consuming excessive amounts of sugar can lead to weight gain and other health problems, only a few people know its impact on their dental health. Unfortunately, your teeth are the first point of contact when consuming sugar, and they end up bearing the brunt of its damaging effects. So, what does sugar do to your teeth? Let’s delve into how sugar affects your teeth and what you can do to protect them from damage.
Show More
Natural Toothache Relief | Patriot Family Dental
01 Mar, 2024
With its constant pain and discomfort, a toothache can be an unwelcome interruption that disrupts our daily lives. Finding relief becomes an urgent priority, whether it's a dull ache, sensitivity to heat or cold, or sharp, stabbing pain. While the allure of natural remedies tempts us to seek solace at home, understanding when to transition from DIY solutions to professional intervention is paramount.
Tooth Abscess | Patriot Family Dental
05 Feb, 2024
Did you know that experiencing persistent tooth pain often conceals a deeper issue—a tooth abscess? This occurs when a bacterial infection establishes a pocket of pus beneath the tooth, causing throbbing pain. These abscesses can develop in different parts of the tooth, including the soft tissue inside (the pulp), the root, and the gums.
Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments | Patriot Family Dental
02 Jan, 2024
Cosmetic dentistry is a specialty area focused on improving smile aesthetics. As it greatly enhances one's oral look and self-confidence, cosmetic dentistry has become increasingly popular. This area of dentistry is dedicated to correcting imperfections, reestablishing symmetry, and creating a smile that may truly make a person proud.
Gum Line | Patriot Family Dental
04 Dec, 2023
Your smile is your most valuable accessory because it reflects your confidence and personality. In the pursuit of a perfect smile, people often focus on teeth whitening, braces, or veneers, but what about the often-overlooked hero of your smile? You know—your gum line?
Tounge | Patriot Family Dental
02 Nov, 2023
Our tongue is one of those things that we take for granted. However, it’s an amazing and remarkable muscular organ that could be considered one of the most important parts of the body. It helps you not only to chew, taste, and enjoy food but also assists with digestion and speech. You can even pull off the toughest tongue twister with it.
Hygienist | Patriot Family Dental
By Allison Cazano 05 Oct, 2023
When it comes to dental care, people often overlook the role of a dental hygienist. As licensed professionals, they have extensive knowledge of all things dental. Their scope of practice is expansive, performing tasks ranging from taking patient vitals to assessing dental health needs.
Tooth Enamel
07 Sep, 2023
Dental enamel is the ultimate protective outer layer of your teeth against cavities or any damage caused when you chew, bite, or grind. It is the hardest substance in the human body, even stronger than bone.
Oil Pulling | Patriot Family Dentistry
02 Aug, 2023
Oil pulling is an ancient technique used to promote oral health and hygiene. It involves swishing oil in your mouth for an extended period and is said to remove bacteria and toxins from the mouth, resulting in a healthier mouth and fresher breath.
Mouthwash | Patriot Family Dental
05 Jul, 2023
Mouthwash is usually seen as the most popular solution for bad breath. However, mouthwash serves a purpose beyond freshening breath. It might be a crucial aid in keeping teeth strong and healthy.
how sugar effect teeth
01 Jun, 2023
Sugar is ubiquitous in our modern diet, found in nearly everything we eat and drink. While we all know that consuming excessive amounts of sugar can lead to weight gain and other health problems, only a few people know its impact on their dental health. Unfortunately, your teeth are the first point of contact when consuming sugar, and they end up bearing the brunt of its damaging effects. So, what does sugar do to your teeth? Let’s delve into how sugar affects your teeth and what you can do to protect them from damage.
More Posts
Share by: