How Untreated Gum Disease Can Damage Heart Health

What do your gums have to do with the heart? They are not even close to each other. How can untreated gum disease damage the heart? These are the questions that may be running through your mind. Here are some facts to help you understand how this phenomenon happens.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a condition that causes gum irritation and teeth loss. In some situations, it may result in gum recession. It exposes the roots of your teeth and allows decay to affect your jaw.

You may lose your teeth, and it may also break down your connective tissue and bone. It destroys them so that the teeth have nothing to anchor in place. To mitigate this, you need to adopt a healthy oral care routine as soon as you see gum irritation, swelling, and bleeding. 

Bacteria and Plaque

There are many causes of gum disease. But whatever causes it in your case, bacteria are the reason it progresses. Our mouths have plenty of bacteria that feed on leftover food particles. As they feed on the particles, they release acids that cause tooth decay and gum inflammation. They also form plaque that sticks to teeth and forms tartar. Gingivitis will develop if you do not get rid of the bacteria through healthy oral habits.

You will notice gum inflammation as the first signs of gingivitis. Most people get gingivitis but ignore it because they think the symptoms will resolve themselves. Gingivitis is a step away from gum disease. If you forget to brush your teeth, floss, and use mouthwash, the situation will not resolve. It will advance and cause bacteria to continue accumulating.

How Does Damage to Heart Health Occur?

Many people have good oral health routines, healthy mouths, and heart disease. However, studies show that people with gum disease are more likely to develop heart disease. The reason is that poor oral health increases the risk of getting bacteria into your bloodstream. 

Once bacteria enter the bloodstream, they can affect your heart valves. They can elevate the c-reactive protein, causing inflammation in the blood vessels. The combination can lead to an increase in the chances of developing heart disease.

How to Prevent It

The best way to prevent damage to heart health is to ensure you do not develop gum disease. Adopt a good oral health routine as soon as you notice gum inflammation. However, do not wait until then. Start having one as early as possible. 

A healthy routine consists of brushing your teeth at least twice a day. Use floss to clean between your teeth where your toothbrush may not reach. Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash or use warm, salty water. Also, remember to keep your dental health appointments and get a dental cleaning at least once a year.

Conclusion

Gum disease increases inflammation in the body, which is a prime contributor to many health problems. These include heart disease. Keep the levels of bacteria and plaque in your mouth low to reduce the chances of damaging your heart health.

For more information on gum disease, visit Smile Center Ohio at 740-513-4400 for our Sunbury, Ohio office.