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Evidence continues to mount suggesting that people with gum disease may be more at risk for heart disease and strokes. Why? Because bacteria and its byproducts from the gum tissues may enter the blood stream, and cause small blood clots that may contribute to the clogging of arteries. The inflammation caused by gum disease may also contribute to the buildup of fatty deposits. Researchers have found that people with gum disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those who do not suffer from gum disease. There is clear evidence that people with gum disease are more likely to suffer from heart disease than those without gum disease. The Connection is Clear During the stages of gum disease, bacteria and toxins from infected gums may access our bloodstream and travel to the heart. According to one theory, when the bacteria travel into the blood stream, it attaches to fatty plaque in the coronary arteries, which are the blood vessels of the heart. In heart disease, the arterial walls thicken with the buildup and results in clot formations. Another theory suggests that there is a relationship between the buildup of plaque on the arteries and the buildup of plaque on the teeth. While there are different types of plaque, the plaque on the arteries may not be the same. The link is not between the plaque, but the inflammation, which causes both gum disease and an increased buildup of arterial plaque. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, can also make an existing heart condition worse. Avoid Gum Disease: Prevention is Key Avoid gum disease and break the link with heart disease. When it comes to prevention it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use a fluoride toothpaste and brush for two minutes at a time. Ideally you should brush after each meal and it is vital, as well, to brush your teeth before you go to bed every night. By maintaining good dental hygiene, you will have healthier teeth and gums. Begin a flossing habit. Try to floss as often as you would brush because cleaning between your teeth is the only way to remove the plaque that your toothbrush cannot reach. If you smoke, stop. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, smoking may be one of the most significant risk factors in periodontal disease. Additionally, eating a healthy diet is very important in maintaining your oral health. Eating a healthy diet is essential as vitamin and other nutrient deficiencies will make it harder for your immune system to function at optimum levels. Regular checkups with your dentist are important, as well, because your dentist will be able to accurately detect early signs of infection. Although you may not be able to guarantee that you will never have a heart attack, you may be able to reduce your risk by daily brushing and flossing. Visit your dentist for an exam and cleaning as your dentist recommends because sometimes gum disease occurs without any visible warning signs. Only a dental professional can remove the tartar and plaque you may miss at home. Protect your teeth and you can guard your heart.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading Canton dentist, Dr. Ralph Bozell. Offering a wide array of services including implants, veneers, whitening, crowns and tooth cleaning in Canton, Dr. Ralph Bozell is qualified to handle all of your dental needs.
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