Periodontal Disease | A Connection to Heart Disease?

Do you, or one of your loved ones, suffer from periodontal disease? If so, you may want to listen up.

Recently, there have been some studies that show that there may be a connection between periodontal disease and heart disease. These connections continue to be studied by researchers.

The connection between the two appear to stem from the bacteria that causes periodontal disease. This same bacteria can work its way into your bloodstream and cause your C-reactive protein count to elevate. An elevation of these proteins can cause someone to be at an increased risk of developing heart disease or having a stroke. This is due to an increase in inflammation in your blood vessels. 

As a medical professional, it would be irresponsible and incorrect to say that brushing and flossing will prevent heart disease. However, I can say that the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth as a whole, are imperative to good overall health and wellness.  

In order to properly maintain the health of your gums and teeth, you need know proper care techniques. 

Properly caring from your teeth and gums can reduce inflammation in your gums, save your teeth, be healthy for your heart, help prevent the development of diabetes, and provide many more health benefits. 

Properly caring for your gums and teeth should include oral wellness visits to receive an examination of the health of your teeth and gums, and to evaluate your risk factors. In addition to this, you should brush twice per day, floss daily, and use mouth wash. If you wear dentures, it is important to make sure they fit properly. 

For more information, click here to watch a video from Benico Barzilai, MD, from the Cleveland Clinic.

Do you have Periodontal Disease? Schedule a Visit!

Want to schedule an appointment with a dentist near you? Dr. Faist is in Beachwood, OH, and always welcomes new patients. Feel free to schedule an appointment today!