Healthy Teeth Safeguard Your Heart
By Chauncey Crandall, M.D.
When you have gum disease, it’s easy for some of the bacteria to escape from your mouth and get into the bloodstream, where it travels to the coronary arteries.
The bacteria then set off your body’s immune response, which sends cells to the site to try and heal the damage. The inflammatory state your immune system creates makes it easier for cholesterol deposits to collect on the coronary arteries, narrowing them.
Special: Top Doctors Say: Your Immune Function Now More Important Than Ever
It also sets the stage for a blood clot, which can rupture, causing a heart attack.
According to the Mayo Clinic, studies have shown poor dental health increases the risk of a bacterial infection in the bloodstream, which can affect the heart valves. Oral health may be particularly important for patients with artificial heart valves.
Safeguard your heart by taking good care of your teeth. Brush and floss your teeth after meals and see your dentist regularly.
By Chauncey Crandall, M.D.
When you have gum disease, it’s easy for some of the bacteria to escape from your mouth and get into the bloodstream, where it travels to the coronary arteries.
The bacteria then set off your body’s immune response, which sends cells to the site to try and heal the damage. The inflammatory state your immune system creates makes it easier for cholesterol deposits to collect on the coronary arteries, narrowing them.
Special: Top Doctors Say: Your Immune Function Now More Important Than Ever
It also sets the stage for a blood clot, which can rupture, causing a heart attack.
According to the Mayo Clinic, studies have shown poor dental health increases the risk of a bacterial infection in the bloodstream, which can affect the heart valves. Oral health may be particularly important for patients with artificial heart valves.
Safeguard your heart by taking good care of your teeth. Brush and floss your teeth after meals and see your dentist regularly.