City of Leeds dentist explains how oral hygiene could prevent heart disease

The health of your teeth may not just be a sign of how well you brush and floss but could indicate your risk of heart disease and strokes.

Several studies have indicated the link between periodontal disease and an increased risk of developing problems with your circulatory system. Further research seems to have proved conclusively that this is the case. A new study found that adults who had lost between 10 and 19 teeth were far more likely to have clogged arteries that caused strokes and heart failure.

The evidence seems to suggest that bacterial infection in the mouth, most likely gum disease can start a chain reaction that leads to a chemical inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation in the circulatory system contributes to a narrowing of the arteries, which leads to medical problems associated with the heart.

The study followed 711 people between the ages of 50 and 75 who had no previous problems with heart disease. Their arteries were examined and it was found that those with missing teeth or poor standards of dental hygiene were more likely to be at risk of heart disease.

Of course it is true that both gum disease and heart disease share many contributing factors which makes it difficult to establish a definite link, such as poor diet and smoking, but all the evidence seems to point towards a link. If you think you may be suffering from gum disease and putting yourself at risk of gum disease then make an appointment to see a City of Leeds dentist to find out how improved oral hygiene could help to prevent heart disease.