Bad Teeth Mean You're Gonna Have a Heart Attack

In past times, infections were the main cause of human death. Now, in the western world, the cardiovascular disease is the leader, bypassing cancer. But while you may be aware that healthy food, exercising and quitting smoking maintain a healthy heart, you should also know that the health of your teeth also impact the likelihood of you having a heart attack.

A new meta-analysis published in the "Journal of Periodontology" (JOP) points that periodontal patients (experiencing gum infection) have a higher risk of experiencing cardiovascular disease.

"Although there have been many studies associating gum disease with heart disease, what we have not known is exactly why this happens and under what circumstances. The findings of this new analysis of previously published studies suggest that the long-term effect of chronic periodontitis, such as extended bacterial exposure, may be what ultimately leads to cardiovascular disease", said JOP editor Dr Kenneth Kornman, DDS.

The team at Howard University analyzed 11 researches that had previously focused on clinically-diagnosed periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease. The researchers focused on the subjects' level of systemic bacterial exposure, specifically searching for the presence of the bacteria species connected with the periodontal disease, but they also assessed different biological indicators of bacterial exposure. They discovered that subjects with periodontal disease whose biomarkers presented higher bacterial exposure were more likely to experience coronary disease or atherogenesis (plaque formation in the arteries).

"While more research is needed to better understand the connection between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, this study suggests the importance of taking of your teeth and gums and how that can help you take care of your heart. With the number of people with heart disease continuing to increase, it is important to understand that simple activities like brushing and flossing twice a day, and regular visits to your dental professional can help lower your risk of other health conditions", said Susan Karabin, DDS, President of the AAP (American Academy of Periodontology).