Can Gum Disease Lead to High Blood Pressure?

Taking care of your mouth is no easy task. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every two adults in the nation have some form of gum disease! However, gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth; like many other oral health problems, it can also influence the rest of your body. One way is by increasing your risk of high blood pressure. Here’s what your dentist wants you to know about gum disease and high blood pressure, along with some tips for keeping your gums healthy and happy.

The Connection Between Gum Disease and High Blood Pressure

Periodontal (gum) disease occurs when bacteria remain on your teeth for too long. This causes plaque to form and eventually turn to tartar, which is quite difficult to remove once it finds its way between the gumline and the teeth. When this happens, nasty infections can develop, and your gums can become inflamed.

This inflammation is very problematic because it allows bacteria from your mouth to escape into your blood stream, which can inhibit your blood flow. One of the causes of hypertension, or high blood pressure, is strain in the bloodstream, and your body must work extra hard to pump blood that is filled with inflammatory bacteria.

This means that gum disease can directly cause hypertension if you let it progress! In fact, one study published in Cardiovascular Research in 2020 estimates that people with moderate gum disease are 22% more likely to have higher blood pressure, jumping up to 49% for patients with severe gum disease.

Gum Disease Warning Signs

There are a few obvious signs and symptoms to watch for when it comes to preventing gum disease, including:

• Chronic bad breath
• Gum recession
• Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
• Loose teeth

Helpful Tips for Preventing Gum Disease

Since the link between gum disease and high blood pressure is very traceable, protecting your gums is a great way to protect yourself from hypertension. Since high blood pressure also doesn’t have any noticeable outward symptoms, this is also a cost-effective way of managing it. Consider the following:

• Brush your teeth and floss daily to reduce the buildup of plaque between your teeth and gum line.
• Avoid smoking or using tobacco products—they can greatly increase the risk of high blood pressure, gum disease, and other serious health problems like oral cancer.
• Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated and rinsed out.
• Visit your dentist twice a year for regular checkups and cleanings.

Even though gum disease can directly influence your blood pressure, there are many things you can do to help prevent it and in turn, prevent hypertension. Talk with your dentist if you’re concerned about periodontal disease influencing your blood pressure.

About the Practice

At Orange Place Family Dentistry, they understand the importance of creating a comfortable and pleasant experience for every patient they see. The practice proudly serves those in the Beachwood area under the leadership of Dr. Jerome L. Faist, Dr. Jed M. Koops, and Dr. Thahn Mollica. They offer a wide range of dental services including preventive, restorative, cosmetic options and more. To schedule a visit, please reach out online or by telephone: (216) 464-2448.