More Links between Gums and Heart

New research helps strengthen the existing link between oral health and heart health. Researchers have found that oral treatment remedies used to reduce inflammation caused by gum disease (periodontitis) also prevents vascular inflammation. As a result, the reduced inflammation lowers the risk of heart attack.

Resolvin E1, the anti-inflammation molecule used to treat gum inflammation linked to gum disease, directly impacts the veins and arteries of the body. It helps reduce inflammation in the artery walls, leading to overall better heart health.

Researchers hope that this discovery, which proves that oral problems and, most importantly, how they are treated, have long-term and lasting effects on the rest of the body. In particular, the heart.

Heart disease accounts for one in four deaths in the United States, according the CDC, and that rate is on the rise. By raising awareness of the mouth’s health in relation to the rest of the body can help lower that rate. The public is well aware of the heart’s impact on the body, and observe heart disease risk factors such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and the dangers of smoking – but very few think that gum disease could be a leading indicator (and potential cause) of heart disease.

If you have any concerns about your gum’s health, be sure to schedule your appointment with your friendly Valencia dentist today. They can go over your risks and discuss long-term goals in preventing the disease.