Poor dental and gum health leads to heart disease

Decayed teeth are a ticking bomb in our body. If left untreated, the negative consequences threaten not only oral health but can also seriously disrupt other bodily functions. Dentists warn that dental and gum disease often lead to cardiovascular disease. How are they linked?

Infection spreads beyond the mouth

The mouth is home to countless bacteria and microbes. When a tooth is decayed, harmful bacteria and microbes multiply in the mouth and can enter the bloodstream causing inflammation in other organs. Bacteria can travel through the bloodstream to the heart, and if the inflammation in the mouth is left untreated for a long time, the heart can weaken to the point of heart attack. The infection can affect not only the heart but also the joints, kidneys, stomach, bladder, etc.

How does tooth loss affect the body?

Tooth loss is just as harmful to the body as damaged teeth. Causes for concern include not only jaw joint and digestive disorders but also cardiovascular disease. It has been observed that the mortality rate among people with certain heart diseases and tooth loss is twice as high as that of patients with all their teeth. Research shows that not having all your teeth significantly increases the risk of stroke. Brushing your teeth twice a day and regular visits to the dentist will help protect your teeth from disease and prevent dangerous cardiovascular diseases.

Treatment and prevention

When tooth and gum infections and other issues become long-term, different symptoms appear: bad breath, tooth sensitivity, pain, red gums, and bleeding. To prevent oral and cardiovascular diseases, one should immediately see a dentist should they notice any of the above symptoms. The dentist will diagnose the problem and provide the necessary treatment. Remember that the condition of your mouth is closely related to the condition of your entire body, it is therefore essential to make every effort to prevent dental disease. First of all, brush your teeth properly and have regular professional teeth cleaning, consume foods with added sugar in moderation, avoid coffee and quit bad habits. By seeing your dentist for preventive care or at the first signs of dental disease, you will not only maintain healthy teeth but also strong overall health.