The Link Between Heart Disease And Periodontal Disease

At its simplest, periodontal disease is an infection that is caused by bacteria in your mouth and is commonly referred to as gum disease. The least severe of the periodontal diseases is gingivitis and is commonly characterized by inflamed and red gums which tend to bleed during brushing or when chewing hard foods such as corn on the cob or fruit. Advanced periodontal disease occurs when the infection spreads below the gum line and starts dissolving the gums and teeth. Given enough time and without proper treatment, it will cause the teeth to fall out and may even affect the jaw bone. However, there also appears to be a solid link between heart disease and periodontal disease.

Coronary artery disease is a condition that can ultimately lead to heart attack and death. It is caused by a thickening of the coronary arteries due to fatty proteins clotting together and obstructing blood flow. No conclusive reason can be found as to why heart disease and periodontal disease are connected, but there is a theory.

Scientists believe that the bacteria responsible for periodontal disease may enter the bloodstream and attach themselves to the fatty plaques responsible for clotting arteries. This process causes the arteries to clot even faster. However, this is only a theory as to the link between heart disease and periodontal disease. What is known for certain is that one nearly doubles the risk of developing coronary artery disease when they have untreated periodontal disease.

Heart disease and periodontal disease are indeed linked. In fact, nearly half of all cases of infective endocarditis are caused by a bacteria found in the mouth called Streptococcus Viridans.

Infective endocarditis is basically an infection found in the heart. It may appear in the chambers or valves. In time, the condition will cause growths to develop in the affected region of the heart. These growths may then clot, break off, and then travel to other organs in the body and cause other health problems. Symptoms include: a prolonged fever that may last for weeks or even months; chronic fatigue; headaches; and night sweats. In more severe stages, dark lines will develop under the fingernails.

Again, heart disease and periodontal problems are definitely linked. In the case of coronary artery disease, the exact manner in which periodontal disease worsens the condition is still ultimately unknown. But while the precise manner in which heart disease and periodontal disease are linked is still unclear, the fact remains that heart problems are twice as likely when gum disease is present.

Although periodontal disease may seem relatively mild and painless, it can develop into a severe health issue if left untreated. It is important to always keep the bad bacteria in our mouths under control which is why good oral hygiene is important. In addition to brushing and flossing, be sure to use a mouthwash or similar product made from all natural ingredients to help fight bacteria. Products made with alcohol or other chemicals will dry the mouth out and rob it of the saliva which naturally controls bacteria. It is important to prevent gum disease so that you don't end up fighting both heart disease AND periodontal disease in the future!

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