There have been recent articles and research papers to indicate a possible link between gum disease (periodontitis) and heart disease (cardiovascular disease). It has been found that people with periodontal diseases are twice as likely to get coronary artery disease as those without any gum disease.
Research has shown almost 92% of people who have CVD also have severe to moderate periodontitis (gum disease).
Some studies suggest that oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and contribute to a thickening of the arterial walls or clot formation. Any blockage of the arteries can lead to heart attacks.
Latest research suggests that gum and heart disease may share the same variation of a gene. The researchers found that a locus on chromosome 9p21 is associated with both heart attack and gum disease. Both diseases share several risk factors, including smoking, diabetes, and obesity.
So people with periodontal disease should take care to reduce their risk factors and keep the disease from progressing.
It is very important that every individual has good, up-to-date oral hygiene techniques to minimise the collection of plaque in the mouth. Regular visits to your dentist, hygienist, and, in some cases, a specialist periodontist are a good way to ensure that conditions are picked up and managed to reduce the risk of future problems.
written by Dr Amit Dodia
