Did you know lack of dental care can lead to heart disease?
Gum disease has been linked to the onset of heart disease and stroke. It is due to the oral bacteria that enters the blood stream and attaches to fatty plaques in the coronary arteries of the heart. Accumulation of these fatty plaques leads to clot formation which obstructs the normal blood flow. Normal blood flow is necessary to provide essential nutrients and oxygen to the body in order to function properly. Lack of normal blood flow can lead to a heart attack or coronary artery disease.
Inflammation caused by periodontal disease also causes plaque to build up and become ingested which contributes to swelling of the arteries. It has been found that individuals suffering from periodontal disease are twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as people without periodontal disease. Existing heart conditions may worsen with the disease and may require the use of antibiotics when dental procedures are done. Many studies have been done to prove that there is a strong correlation between gum disease and heart disease as well as stroke. It is not merely a coincidence but a determinant of overall health.
Dental health maintenance is essential in order to avoid these risk factors. If you have been diagnosed to get root planing (deep cleaning) or been referred to see a periodontist (gum specialist) you should definitely not postpone making an appointment and getting the treatment done as soon as possible. Gum disease can be reversed and returned to a healthy state in which the risks of heart disease and stroke drastically decrease. Do not let your dental status deteriorate your overall health.
Here at 7 Day Dental we encourage people to take good care of their teeth now, and not pay hundreds of dollars later. Come visit us any time of the year, since we are open 365 days of the year. For more information and other articles “like” us on facebook on any of the following pages:
Comments
No comments yet.
