Millions of Americans lose their lives to heart disease each year.  Research has shown there is a link between heart disease and gum disease.  These studies have shown that individuals with gum disease are at a higher risk of developing heart attacks and coronary artery disease – and may even suffer a stroke.

“Educating consumers on the link between oral and overall health, including warning signs in the mouth that may indicate a larger health problem, can help save lives,” said Dr. E. Mac Edington, spokesman for the Academy of General Dentistry.

The health of an individual’s gums can show early warning signs of heart disease.  Gums that are unhealthy become inflamed and infected.  When infected, the gums house bacteria, which can enter the bloodstream and travel to various parts of the body, including the heart.  As bacteria enter the bloodstream, they can attach to the walls of the blood vessels, causing clots to form.  These blood clots impede normal blood flow, which limits the proper nourishment that the heart needs to function.

Dentists perform exams which assess an individual’s oral health and gum health.  Dentists look for signs and symptoms of gum disease, including soreness or painful gums, bleeding gums, bad breath, mouth sores, gums that pull away from the teeth, plaque, heavy tartar buildup and infection of the gums or teeth.  If you experience any of these symptoms, you are at risk for gum disease.  For instance, if you experience gums that bleed when you brush or floss, this is a sign of infection and is not normal.

 It is extremely important to undergo routine dental checkups at least twice a year to help identify gum disease in its earliest stages.  Based on a gum health check, the dentist can recommend a gum treatment that is right for you.  For healthy gums and even early stages of gum disease (gingivitis), routine cleanings every six months and great care of your teeth and gums at home (brushing twice daily for at least two minutes each time and flossing once daily) are sufficient to maintain the health of your gums.  However, if left untreated, gum disease may progress to periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease not only affects the gums, but also the bone which supports the teeth.  During periodontal disease, bacteria are allowed to destroy the gums and jaw bone, which can lead to loosening of teeth, shifting of teeth, receding gums, gum abscesses and eventually the loss of teeth.  Gums at this stage of disease require more attention, and treatment may include a deep cleaning to detoxify the gums of the bacteria which cause periodontal disease, followed by more frequent routine cleanings to maintain the health of your gums.

If the gums are in the late stages of periodontal disease, the dentist may refer you to a gum specialist, or periodontist, for further treatment in order to help you get your gums healthy.
Dentists know that your teeth and gums hold important clues to overall health and can work with you and your physician to reduce your risk of heart disease and help treat current health problems.  There is truly a connection between gum health and, oral health and whole body health.  For a healthy body, one must have optimal oral health.

The article, “Warning Signs in the Mouth Can Save Lives,” provided by the academy of General Dentistry’s website was referenced in this column.  For additional information in the link between heart disease and oral health, visit the Academy of General Dentistry’s website at www.agd.org or the American Academy of Periodontology’s website at www.perio.org. 

Dr. Tejas Patel practices general and cosmetic dentistry in the Lakeway area.  Dr. Patel is a graduate of the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston.  If you have questions about this article, call 263-8337 or email dr tejas@lakewaysmiles.com