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People who have gum disease may be at a higher risk for heart attacks than people with risk factors including smoking, cholestrol, gender and age. Researchers have found possible links between periodontal infections and heart disease. They've reported that the most common strain of bacteria foud in plaque can cause blood clots that induce heart attacks when they escape into the bloodstream.

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal (gum) disease, an infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is a major cause of tooth loss in adults, and which emerging science associates with heart disease, diabetes and other health problems. Periodontal disease can sometimes be painless, so people may be unaware they have it. Only your dental professional can tell you for sure.

Plaque is one of the primary factors contributing to periodontal disease. Plaque is a sticky, colorless deposit of bacteria that is constantly forming on the tooth’s surface. Saliva, food and fluids combine to produce these deposits, which collect where the teeth and gums meet. Plaque buildup is the primary factor in periodontal disease. While gingivitis is a milder and reversible form of periodontal disease that only affects the gums, it may lead to more serious, destructive forms if left untreated.

• Mild inflammation of the gums due to plaque buildup
• Red or swollen gums
• Gums that bleed easily

It’s essential to prevent the build-up of plaque by:

• Brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled or power toothbrush and an anti-gingivitis, anti-plaque toothpaste containing fluoride to strengthen teeth and prevent decay
• Adding an anti-bacterial rinse to your daily routine can help control plaque and gingivitis
• Floss once a day to remove food particles and plaque between teeth

Just as with any health condition, the earlier you seek treatment the better. It’s important to maintain your biannual dental checkup regimen to catch oral hygiene issues before they have a chance to fully develop.

To explain the relationship between the heart and periodontal infections, current theory suggests that bacteria present in infected gums can come loose and move throughout the body. This means these same bacteria that cause gum disease might travel to your arteries.

Research suggests that once bacteria reach the arteries, they can irritate tissue in the same way they do the gum tissue, causing arterial plaque to build up in the arteries. This accumulation of bacteria can cause arteries to harden, restrict blood flow and potentially result in a heart attack or stroke.

Even though the research is not conclusive at this point, it’s still important to try and prevent periodontal disease and infections from the start.

Click here to learn more about how you can prevent gingivitis.

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