Oral health has been shown to have an effect on a patient’s heart health. Poor oral hygiene can result in gum disease. In some cases, bacteria and germs from the mouth spread through the bloodstream and to other parts of the body; this can cause serious inflammation and bacterial infections. The inflammation may contribute to the development of many heart conditions. A bacterial infection in the bloodstream can be harmful to the heart valves and may be dangerous for those who have artificial heart valves.
Periodontal disease is an infection that develops in the gum tissues and jawbone. The condition is caused by plaque that builds up on the teeth and may lead to tooth loss. It is a common disease and can often remain undetected for long periods of time as some dental patients do not notice any of the typical signs of gum inflammation.
Moderate and severe gum disease have been linked to numerous cardiovascular conditions. Patients with periodontal disease are more at risk to develop atherosclerosis, a condition that causes a narrowing and hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis puts patients at a higher chance of suffering from a heart attack or stroke. Endocarditis, an infection of the heart’s lining that can cause life-threatening damage, has also been connected to gum disease.
Patients should be aware of the symptoms of periodontal disease and visit a general dentist as soon as possible if they develop any of the following warning signs:
Preventing the development of gum disease is crucial. Proper oral hygiene, which includes brushing twice a day and flossing daily, is one of the easiest ways to avoid periodontal disease. Patients should also see a general dentist twice a year for routine cleanings and examinations to ensure the teeth and gums are in optimal health. Taking proper care of the teeth may reduce the risk of developing heart disease for many patients.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Oral Health in Albuquerque, NM
Research shows a patient’s oral health can have a connection to heart health. Gum disease may lead to the possibility of heart disease. It is vitally important for patients to practice proper oral hygiene habits to aid in the prevention of serious heart conditions. Routine visits to a general dentist can help patients protect their overall health as well as maintain a beautiful and healthy smile.
Request an appointment or call Salud Dental Group at 505-608-7517 for an appointment in our Albuquerque office.
A general dentist often recommends a dental sealant for patients who want to take extra preventative measures to ensure the health and safety of their teeth. A sealant can be utilized if they feel like your molars and other teeth with deep grooves are at risk of suffering damage. If you consider a dental sealant…
Considering cosmetic dental work from a general dentist? Although cosmetic dentistry is its own field, general dentists also offer an array of procedures that can be used to improve the way that the teeth look. There are a lot of different procedures that can be performed in a general dentistry setting. Keep reading to find…
Persistent oral pain or extensive decay may send a patient to a general dentist, who must then advise whether the patient should try to save the tooth or have it pulled. To save the tooth, a root canal procedure may be necessary. This involves removing the infected pulp of the tooth and replacing it with…
Using a dental sealant is reasonably simple, and most general dentists can do them easily…
Visiting a new dental office is a great way to take charge of your oral…
Preventive dentistry professionals recommend replacing a toothbrush every three to four months.
Extractions are typically recommended when other options are not enough to solve a patient’s problems.
Because Invisalign® is removable, wearers are encouraged to keep the actual piece in for 22…
Salud Dental Group | Toddlers should undergo a dental cleaning at least twice a year,…
