Gum disease can cause a broken heart!

For years mounting research has connected gum disease to cardiovascular diseases including heart attack and stroke. Periodontal disease (gum disease) is the bacterial infection of the gums around teeth. Periodontal disease can exist as a chronic and/or acute disease and is the most likely the most common disease in mankind.

A number of theories have been proposed to explain the association between periodontal disease and heart disease. A well accepted understanding of the problem is that bacteria in the mouth enter the blood stream and attach to existing globs of fatty plaques in the arteries around the heart (coronary arteries) and contribute to clot formation. The buildup of fatty proteins in the coronary arteries causes a thickening of the artery walls and an obstruction of normal blood flow. The result is a decrease in nutrients and oxygen necessary for proper heart function. Eventually, heart muscle is damaged and results in a heart attack.

Another accepted theory is that the inflammation mediators present in infected gums circulate through the blood stream and cause inflammation and plaque buildup in the coronary arteries.

While the exact cause of the changes to the coronary arteries that cause heart attack in people with gum disease remains undetermined, there is one fact that is simply not disputed. People with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke, than those without periodontal disease.

It stands to reason, and research supports the fact, that people with existing heart conditions are also at risk of periodontal disease. It is important that you inform your dentist of your heart condition before you have dental treatment. Some patients may require antibiotics before some types of dental care. Dental surgical procedures such as extractions and gum surgeries can allow increased amounts of bacteria and inflammatory products into the blood stream. Pre-medication with antibiotics can help mitigate the potential for problems.

Stroke is another consequence of cardiovascular disease. Studies also show that there is a very significant relationship between periodontal disease and stroke. Recent research shows that periodontal disease exists in a high percentage of people with acute cerebral vascular ischemia (stroke) compared to those in control groups.

Periodontal disease is extremely common but not inevitable. It can be prevented with proper brushing, flossing, and regular professional dental cleanings. Visiting Kaneohe Family Dental Care for your examinations and cleanings will help ensure that you avoid periodontal disease and its awful consequences to your health. Cynthia Ichiriu Keller,DDS, and Bruce Keller, DDS, along with their expert dental hygienists, provide precise diagnosis and modern gentle treatment of your gum problems. They will also teach you simple ways for you to keep your gums healthy for a lifetime.

By: Cynthia Ichiriu Keller, DDS

Kaneohe Family Dental Care, Inc. was established in 1984 by the husband and wife team of Bruce Keller, D.D.S. and Cynthia Ichiriu Keller, D.D.S. Both Bruce and Cynthia are graduates of the Creighton University School of Dentistry, and are members of the Honolulu County Dental Society, Hawaii Dental Association, and the American Dental Association. Both doctors have received professional awards including multiple listings on Honolulu Magazine’s list of Top Dentists in Hawaii and America’s Guide to Top Dentists.