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Did you know that the health of your teeth and gums can directly relate to the health of your heart? Research shows that over 90 percent of all systemic diseases, including heart disease, have oral symptoms. A sore or painful jaw could indicate an impending heart attack or heart disease, making biannual visits to the dentist an important investment in one's oral and overall health. Regular visits to your Amarillo dentist are crucial for patients with a history of heart disease to check for any signs of oral pain, infection or inflammation. Communication with your dentist is key in proper diagnosis and treatment of all diseases, especially heart disease, since the longer it goes untreated, the greater the risk of heart attack is. Signs of Gum Disease Gum disease is caused by plaque build-up and affects an estimated 80 percent of American adults. Studies have shown that those who have gum disease are at a higher risk for heart attack. If bacteria in the infected gums dislodge, they can enter the bloodstream, attach to arterial plaque and may increase clot formation. Clots can decrease the blood supply to the heart, increasing the chance of a heart attack and raising your blood pressure. Signs of gum disease include:
• Bad breath that won't go away
• Red or swollen gums
• Tender or bleeding gums
• Painful chewing
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Receding gums or longer appearing teeth Any of these signs may be recognition that there is a serious problem, which should be checked by a dentist immediately. Keep your mouth healthy. Gum disease should always be taken seriously because it is a dangerous infection. Because gum disease can often show few or no symptoms at all, it is important to watch for gums that are red and irritated or bleed easily.
Gum Disease Links to Heart Disease Your mouth is a pathway to the body. Bacteria present in your infected gums can come loose and move throughout the body. The same bacteria that cause gum disease and that irritate your gums might travel to your arteries.
Infected gums bleed, making it easier for bacteria to enter your blood stream. If the bacteria become dislodged they can enter through cuts or sores in your mouth and can travel to other parts of the body through your bloodstream. If bacteria reach the arteries, they can irritate them in the same way that they irritate gum tissue. This could cause arterial plaque to accumulate which can cause hardening of the arteries and decreased or blocked blood flow. Compromised blood flow to your heart can cause a heart attack and arterial plaque can come loose and travel to other parts of the body.
Visit your Amarillo dentist if you are exhibiting any signs or symptoms of gum disease. It is vital to receive treatment and diagnosis early. Gum disease can be prevented and treated properly with the consultation of your dentist. Keep your smile healthy and protect yourself against gum disease and heart disease.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading Amarillo dentist, Dr. Ken Comer. Practicing quality dental care for 20 years with a focus in the treatment of oral-facial pain, endodontic, TMD, restorative, cosmetic and implants in Amarillo, Dr. Comer is committed to providing the best in quality care for patients of every age.
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