IF YOU’RE LIKE OUR OTHER PATIENTS AT LILLY FAMILY DENTISTRY, you want to take the very best care of your heart, right? Well, did you know that in addition to that gym membership you’ve been trying to use this year, your toothbrush may keep your heart healthy just as well? Yes, it’s true! According to Drs. Jane and Kevin Lilly, “There are a number of recent studies that suggest gum disease—and other oral health issues—are directly related to heart problems.”
It was reported in a recent study by the American Academy of Periodontology that people who have periodontal disease are nearly twice as likely to have heart disease. Studies have also found that common oral health problems like cavities or gingivitis are as good at predicting heart disease as are bad cholesterol levels.
While everyone agrees there is a lot more to learn about these connections, the evidence seems to be growing stronger each year. At Lilly Family Dentistry, we know that bacteria in your mouth can enter your bloodstream through your gums. Through studies they have found this same bacteria clumped up in artery plaques. One theory is that the bacteria sticks to the fatty plaques in your bloodstream, making them directly contribute to blockages.
There are other theories that revolve around your body’s defenses against bacteria, including the natural response of inflammation. Oral bacteria traveling through your bloodstream can cause blood cells to swell, which can lead to narrowing of arteries and clot risks.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-e2eLXtQ8E&fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0]No one knows the exact relationships between cardiovascular disease and periodontal disease. But research is continuing today because one thing is for sure, there is definitely a connection. Of course, don’t skip the gym because your toothbrush seems easier. It’s still just as important to keep eating healthy foods, exercise regularly, and take care of risk factors like diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure.
And, don’t forget your visits to our office. We see preventive care go a long way in avoiding more serious problems in the future. It’s also great to have peace of mind knowing you are on top of your health, teeth and all.
If you have any questions, be sure to ask us.
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We look forward to the next time we see you. Thanks.