Healthy Gums, Healthy Heart
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is America’s number one killer of men and women.
Did you know that heart disease and oral health are linked? For the first time, researchers are showing that improved gum health can significantly slow the progression of atherosclerosis, the narrowing of arteries through the build-up of plaque.*
A new study following 420 adults over a median period of three years showed that improvement in gum health slowed the progression of atherosclerosis, while worsening gum health and infections paralleled the increase or progression of atherosclerosis.**
Healthy gums not only create a healthy smile, they also help to create a healthy heart.
Because the mouth is a pathway to the body, people who have chronic gum disease are at a higher risk for heart attack, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Some researchers have suggested that gum disease may contribute to heart disease because bacteria from infected gums can dislodge, enter the bloodstream, attach to blood vessels and increase clot formation.
So how do you know if you are at risk for gum disease? Here are some warning signs that you might look for:
- Red, tender or swollen gums
- Bleeding gums while brushing or flossing
- Gums that seem to be pulling away from your teeth
- Chronic bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Teeth that are loose or are separating from each other
Ultimately, prevention is the best medicine. Regular dental checkups, professional cleanings and good oral hygiene practices can improve oral health. Good oral health contributes to good overall health, which promotes a healthier, happier you.
*Research from Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health
**Journal of the American Heart Association, 2013; 2: e000254
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