Heart Conditions
Does poor oral hygiene increase the risk of heart disease?
6 min read
By Apollo 24/7, Published on - 19 December 2020, Updated on - 24 June 2023
Share this article
0
5 likes
What is oral hygiene and why is it important?
-
Cavities
-
Gingivitis
-
Periodontitis
How does gum disease affect heart health?
- It is believed that the bacteria that cause gum disease can travel throughout the body via blood vessels. Over time, the bacteria damage the blood vessels and heart valves by causing inflammation in them. This increases the risk of complications such as blood clots, stroke, endocarditis (inflammation of the inner lining of the heart), and heart attack.
- Certain studies have also found residue of oral bacteria in atherosclerotic blood vessels that are not even in the proximity of the mouth. This indicates that oral bacteria can contribute to the build of plaque (atherosclerosis) in the blood vessels, a major risk factor for heart disease and heart attack.
- Another theory states that an overactive immune response to a bacterial infection (such as gum disease) can also be a risk factor for poor heart health. An overactive immune response can trigger severe inflammation throughout the body. The inflammation can trigger a chain of vascular damage, including the heart and brain.
Dental care for people with cardiovascular conditions
-
Endocarditis
-
Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
-
Stroke
-
High blood pressure (hypertension)
-
Anticoagulants and antiplatelet medications
How to prevent poor oral health?
- Always remember to brush teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
- Rinse your mouth with a mouthwash
- If possible, floss teeth once daily
- Decrease intake of foods and beverages that are acidic or sugary
- Limit snacking in-between meals
- Quit smoking
- Limit consumption of alcohol
- Drink more water
- Increase consumption of vegetables and fruits
- Schedule professional dental care every six months.
Conclusion
Heart Conditions
Leave Comment
Recommended for you
Heart Conditions
7-Day Diet to Lower Triglycerides Naturally
Triglycerides are fat that the body stores and uses for energy. Elevated levels of triglycerides can increase the risk of various health problems. This comprehensive article provides insights into triglycerides, diet types, and a 7-day meal plan designed to promote overall health and well-being.
Heart Conditions
Heart Health: Separating the Myths from Facts
It is necessary to separate the heart-related myths from the facts to be able to follow a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Heart Conditions
Can High BP in Middle Age Cause Brain Damage Later?
A new study has stated that having high blood pressure in the 40s and 50s can lead to significant damage to brain tissue in later life.
Subscribe
Sign up for our free Health Library Daily Newsletter
Get doctor-approved health tips, news, and more.
Visual Stories
7 Tips to Manage Hypertension
Tap to continue exploring
Recommended for you
Heart Conditions
7-Day Diet to Lower Triglycerides Naturally
Triglycerides are fat that the body stores and uses for energy. Elevated levels of triglycerides can increase the risk of various health problems. This comprehensive article provides insights into triglycerides, diet types, and a 7-day meal plan designed to promote overall health and well-being.
Heart Conditions
Heart Health: Separating the Myths from Facts
It is necessary to separate the heart-related myths from the facts to be able to follow a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Heart Conditions
Can High BP in Middle Age Cause Brain Damage Later?
A new study has stated that having high blood pressure in the 40s and 50s can lead to significant damage to brain tissue in later life.