Brushing up on gum disease: How it affects heart health
Brushing and flossing twice a day can keep gum disease and heart disease away. Research has documented that having periodontal (gum) disease can increase - perhaps two-fold - the risk of heart attack and stroke, says Dr. John M. DiGrazia, cardiologist and co-chief of cardiology at CJW Medical Center.
The New England Journal of Medicine published a recent study showing that gum disease(an infection of the gum tissue) is linked with higher levels of blood vessel inflammation.Researchers found higher blood levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a sign of inflammation, in gum disease patients. Elevated CRP is associated with increased risk of heart attack and stroke, declares DiGrazia. Ultimately, treating the gum disease led to reduced inflammation levels in the heart
Preventing gum disease is not just a dentist’s domain. DiGrazia encourages his heart patients to see a dentist if they show signs of gum disease such as discolored or loose teeth.So remember there is no downside to having better teeth and gums.” The upside to a healthy smile is a healthy heart.
Source:www.ada.org and
American Academy of Periodontology.
