A Connection between Tooth Loss and Cardiovascular Disease

Have you ever thought of there being a link between cardiovascular diseases and tooth loss?

Well, if you haven’t this article should peak your attention. From the research that was recently carried out, the findings revealed there IS a link between the two. The findings were presented during the 2018 American Heart Association’s Epidemiology and Prevention conference.

Data was collected from middle-aged patients (between 45 to 69 years) who had lost more two or more teeth during the study. The researchers analyzed the impact of tooth loss over eight years. At the start of the research, no one had any kind of cardiovascular disease. During the study, participants had to report to the researchers if they lost any teeth. The number of remaining teeth would then be documented.

Individuals with 25-32 natural teeth at the start of the study that lost two or more teeth were 23% more likely to develop cardiovascular diseases as compared to those who didn’t have any tooth loss. During the entire study, it was noted that there wasn’t a big increase of people who reported losing one tooth. Individuals that had less than 17 teeth at the commencement of the study were 25% more likely to have coronary conditions. The overall risk among participants increased 16% among those that lost teeth during the research, regardless of how many teeth they started with. This as compared to participants who didn’t have any tooth loss.

The results of the research suggest that poor dental health can affect your heart. A healthy lifestyle wasn’t factored in for the participants to be exposed at a higher risk of getting cardiovascular disease. Those that had unhealthy conditions such as diabetes didn’t seem to have any impact on the study.

From the research, it’s clear that dental issues play a role in developing coronary conditions. The data collected during the study shows the link between tooth loss and cardiovascular diseases. Aside from poor oral health, there are other factors that lead to cardiovascular diseases; such as diabetes and leading a sedentary life.

Moreover, the results show the critical part primary care physicians have to play in ensuring oral health. Tooth loss and change in a patient’s oral health are an indication that all is not well health-wise. Patients can make sure they have a hand in a positive, healthy outcome by cutting out harmful lifestyle choices such as smoking and eating unhealthy foods.