Unlocking the Connection Between Heart & Gum Disease

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every two people suffers from gum disease. They also reported that heart disease is the leading cause of death for people in the United States. For years, researchers have been establishing connection between gum disease and heart disease. They’re looking to bring attention to the importance of caring for teeth and gums, and how routine care can help drastically reduce patients’ risks of developing serious medical conditions such as cardiovascular issues. Read on to learn what the research says, and how you can protect yourself from gum disease to ensure your overall wellbeing.  

What Does The Research Say?

Two recent notable studies over the last six years have taken place that show a clear connection between your oral health and heart. In one study published in 2014, researchers examined people with both conditions and monitored their health and care costs. They found that people who adequately treated their gum disease had cardiovascular care costs that were between 10 and 40 percent lower than people who didn’t receive proper dental care.

Another group of researchers compiled and analyzed results from several studies on gum and heart disease done in the years before. They found that gum disease can increase a person’s risk of developing a  cardiovascular condition by 20 percent.

Both the American Dental Association and the American Heart Association have acknowledged the connection between these two disease, and urge patients to maintain good dental health so their overall wellbeing stays on track.

What Other Conditions Are Related To Gum Disease?

Over the years, several additional studies have been conducted that show how gum disease can impact other areas of the body as well. Some other conditions affected by gum health include:

• Diabetes
• Osteoporosis
• Respiratory diseases
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Alzheimer’s

With the proper care and treatment, patients can help reduce their risk of developing or worsening these conditions, keeping them out of harm’s way.

How Can You Keep Your Gums Healthy?

Keeping your gums healthy starts with regularly brushing, flossing, and rinsing your mouth. This will help remove and kill any lingering harmful oral bacteria that can infect your gums. It’s also a good idea to take certain vitamin and nutrient supplements that can boost your gums’ immunity, including vitamin C, Iron, vitamin D, and calcium.

If you already have gum disease, the best way to keep it from getting worse and travelling to your cardiovascular system is to receive treatment from your dentist. They’ll be able to ease any of your discomfort and make sure that the disease doesn’t cause permanent oral damage.

If you’re ever in doubt or feel as though you’re experiencing out-of-the-ordinary symptoms that could be a result of gum disease, immediately visit your dentist for an examination. With early treatment, they’ll be able to reverse the signs and restore your oral health, so you can carry on with your natural smile and healthy heart for years to come.

About the Author

Dr. Steven Stec has decades of experience optimizing his patients’ oral health by tackling common oral health problems early on. He understands how the health of teeth and gums can impact the rest of his patients’ bodies, which is why he focuses on providing thorough preventive treatments. He also offers comfortable, state-of-the-art  gum disease treatments to help tackle the condition and boost the health of your gums. For questions or to schedule a checkup, visit Stec Cosmetic & Family Dentistry’s website or call 308-382-4440.