Is gum disease linked to heart problems?.. Learn ways to prevent and improve oral health

Posted by Fatima Khalil

Sunday, July 23, 2023 at 05:00 PM

Poor oral health is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. It is also associated with a higher incidence of diabetes and high blood pressure, which also increases the risk of heart disease. Gum disease is associated with stroke, which is often driven by the same process that causes heart attacks: Atherosclerosis – the lining of the walls of arteries with fat, fat and other substances.

Gum disease refers to inflammation and infection of the tissues that support your teeth. According to the Mayo Clinic, here are some symptoms to watch for:

Red or purple gums

Bleeding

the pain

bad breath

Unpleasant taste

Pain while chewing

Gums that pull away from your teeth

A change in the way your teeth fit together

What causes gum disease?

According to health experts, the number one cause of gum disease is dental plaque buildup. Plaque contains different types of bacteria that can infect the gums. Therefore, poor oral hygiene can increase your chances of developing gum disease. For some, genes may play a role in gum disease by changing the way the immune system responds to bacteria.

How to prevent gum disease

Regular dental hygiene is important to prevent gum disease. These include brushing twice a day for two minutes, changing your toothbrush after the bristles wear down, flossing to remove plaque between teeth, and seeing your dentist twice a year for cleanings. If your gums bleed, don’t ignore it and see your dentist.

Does gum disease treatment reduce the risk of heart disease?

The connection between gum disease and other health problems like heart disease is very clear. However, there is currently little evidence to conclusively demonstrate that dental procedures and cleanings reduce the risk of heart disease.

Is gum disease contagious?

The bacteria that cause gum disease can be passed from one person to another through frequent, long-term contact with saliva (like kissing). Drinking from the same cup or sharing utensils with them increases the chances of developing gum disease.