Health Initiative

Periodontal (Gum) Disease Links to Heart Disease and Stroke

By: Kevin Dancy, DDS, MS


Periodontal diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections that, left untreated, can lead to tooth

loss. Factors such as smoking/tobacco use, genetics, puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can also affect the health

of your gums. Several theories exist to explain the link between periodontal disease and heart disease. One theory is

that oral bacteria can affect the heart when they enter the blood stream, attaching to fatty plaques in the coronary

arteries (heart blood vessels) and contributing to clot formation. Coronary artery disease is characterized by a

thickening of the walls of the coronary arteries due to the buildup of fatty proteins. Blood clots can obstruct normal


blood flow, restricting the amount of nutrients and oxygen required for the heart to function properly. This may lead

to heart attacks.

 

Another possibility is that the inflammation caused by periodontal disease increases plaque build up, which may

contribute to swelling of the arteries. Researchers have found that people with periodontal disease are almost

twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease can also exacerbate existing heart conditions. Patients at risk for infective endocarditis may

require antibiotics prior to dental procedures. Your cardiologist will be able to determine if your heart condition requires



Stroke

Additional studies have pointed to a relationship between periodontal disease and stroke. In one study that looked at


the causal relationship of oral infection as a risk factor for stroke, people diagnosed with acute cerebrovascular

ischemia were found more likely to have an oral infection when compared to those in the control group.

Remember: Brushing and flossing may actually save your life

Source: American Academy of Periodontology