World Oral Health Day 2023: Correlation between oral health and heart disease

It is increasingly common to hear that oral health is important for overall health. For example, more than 80 percent of Indians are living with periodontal or gum disease, which often goes undiagnosed. This may be because the patient’s teeth feel fine, there is no pain, so one avoids going to the dentist, and very few go to the dentist, focusing on oral health.

Oral health and heart disease are linked to the spread of bacteria and other germs from the mouth to other parts of the body through the bloodstream.

Risk link between oral health and heart disease

Patients with chronic gum conditions such as gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease have twice the risk of heart disease if poor oral health is not diagnosed. Studies show that bacteria in the mouth are similar to plaque, which blocks the arteries of the heart and can lead to infection of the heart valves. “Bacteria that are associated with gum infections in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart where they attach to blood vessels and increase your risk for cardiovascular disease. This can result in a condition called endocarditis.” which is an infection of the inner lining of the heart,” Dr.

Inflammation caused by oral bacteria has also been linked to other cardiovascular conditions, such as blockage of the arteries (atherosclerosis) and stroke. “Even if you don’t have noticeable gingivitis, however, poor oral hygiene and plaque and calculus that accumulate on your teeth near the gum line put you at risk for gum disease. Cardiovascular Diseases Patients with a history of heart disease or if a patient has had a valve implant, it is important to take antibiotics before seeing the dentist to reduce the risk of infection,” says Dr Sood.

Dr Sood explains the symptoms and warning signs

• A swollen, red, itchy or sore throat is a sign of gingivitis or periodontal disease.
• Gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss are a sign of swollen gums.
• Pus or whitish-yellow discharge between the teeth and gums.
• bad breath
• Brown deposits on the teeth around the gum line, indicating a build-up of calculus or tartar on the teeth.
• Mobile or loose teeth/teeth.
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preventive measures

To avoid inflammation and the possible introduction of bacteria into the bloodstream, practice and maintain good oral health to protect your heart by following some tips by Dr. Sood –

1. Regular dental checkup. Every six months, your dentist should schedule a visit to the dentist.
2. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride paste.
3. Floss between your teeth daily, especially before bedtime, to remove plaque (a soft sticky film of bacteria).
4. Get professional teeth cleaning done by the dentist twice a year.
5. Limit between meals and sweet foods.
6. Visit the dentist at the first sign of bleeding gums.

By being proactive about your oral health, you can take care of your teeth, gums and maintain a healthy heart.

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