Examining the Subtle Link between Gum Disease and Stroke

This might be the time to visit the dentist if it has been a while since your last visit. Recent studies have shown a connection between heart health and mouth health.

People with poor dental health are also likely to have poor heart health, albeit there is no direct correlation between the two.

This does not imply that a dentist or cardiologist can provide information about your oral health or the structure of your heart. But even so, you should be aware of the connection because heart health is important for preventing stroke.

The connection between gum disease and stroke is explored in more detail below.

Periodontal Disease, Explained

Gum disease, sometimes referred to as periodontal disease, is an infection of the hard and soft tissues that support and cover your teeth.

The most frequent cause of gum disease is poor dental hygiene, such as failing to wash your teeth frequently or thoroughly enough. The mildest type of periodontal disease is gingivitis. In addition to bleeding, it makes the gums red and swollen.

Gingivitis can progress to periodontitis if left untreated. The much more serious condition of periodontitis actually poses a threat to your overall health. Under your gum line, the periodontitis-causing bacteria enter your bloodstream.

Your gums will begin to split from your teeth once they enter your bloodstream and begin attacking the bones and tissues in your mouth. At this stage, more bacteria may get below the gum line, ultimately resulting in tooth loss.

Periodontal Disease and Heart Health

The connection between gum disease and heart health may not be immediately apparent, but it all boils down to inflammation—the swelling of infected tissues.

Atherosclerosis is brought on by inflammation. The blood flow to and from your heart is hampered by atherosclerosis, which subsequently causes heart disease and stroke.

According to research, Streptococcus sanguis, a particular bacteria related to periodontitis, has also been found to spread to the heart after entering the body.

Additionally, this microorganism contributes to stroke. Healthy gums make it more difficult for S. sanguis to enter the body and prevent it from spreading to the heart.

According to more studies, the thickness of your carotid arteries and S. sanguis and other periodontal disease bacteria have been linked. Your carotids become thicker as you have more of them, making it more difficult for blood to reach your brain.

Periodontal Disease Prevention and Treatment

Brushing your teeth at least once a day is the most straightforward strategy to prevent gum disease. Plaque that develops between your gums and teeth is also removed from your teeth by brushing.

Don’t forget to scrub your tongue as well; bacteria like to hide there.

Daily flossing eliminates food particles and plaque that brushes can’t reach from between teeth and along the gum line. Several items are available on the market that make flossing simpler.

The usage of mouthwash is another aspect of good dental health. The final step removes any food or plaque your brush or floss may have missed, leaving you with fresh breath.

Other risk factors include age, smoking, food, genetics, and periodontal disease. You should keep a closer eye on your oral health in general and your gum health in particular if gum disease has a history in your family.

Regular dental or periodontal examinations of your gums are recommended. During the scaling and root planing process, a dentist may use an ultrasonic or manual scaler to clear plaque and tartar from your teeth.

Conclusion

Your general health is affected by your oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing are the greatest ways to avoid gum disease. But you should focus on your gums if you have a record of stroke, heart disease, or type 2 diabetes. If routine brushing and flossing don’t control gum inflammation, be treated.

If you’re looking for a trusted dentist in Waterford, Michigan, then you can rely on Dental House MI!

We provide preventive dentistry, dentures, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, oral surgery, advanced dental technology, dental implants, and more. Book your dental appointment today!