Tooth Gum Health and Corresponding Heart Health

It’s been long believed that there is a corresponding concern that tooth and gum health is indicative of heart health. This is due to the fact that inflammation is a significant problem of each disease. Plaque, whether on teeth or in arteries, is an advancement of inflammation itself.

Also a common denominator for both diseases is bacteria. The most regularly found bacteria in dental plaque can, technically, make its way into the blood stream and travel through the arteries. This is especially dangerous if the plaque results in blood clots, which can cause a heart attack or even a stroke.

Maintain health

There are some basic courses of action you can take to maintain health in each of these areas.

• Gently brushing after meals, at least twice a day and flossing before bed is, of course, the first step.
• Eating a variety of healthy foods including plenty of raw fruits and vegetables with skins while eliminating processed foods and sugary drinks of all kinds is another great line of defense.
• Keeping healthy by not smoking and exercising regularly are also extremely important.
• Any sort of cigarette or marijuana smoke generates a huge amount of free radicals and carbon into the mouth. Chemical reactions from these toxic substances damage cells and diminish vitamins and minerals in the mouth.

Also, keeping in mind that our gut system is considered our second brain, repairing the intestines can allow for repair of the mouth as well. Tongue scraping is another useful tool which removes bacteria, food debris, fungi, and dead cells. Oil pulling, which literally pulls toxins from the mouth, is touted as a very influential protocol for gum health.

Studies on correlation of gum health and heart health

Researches suggested a link between tooth and gum health and heart health. While some studies have found a correlation between the two, the scientific community is still investigating the nature of the relationship.

One study published in the British Medical Journal found that individuals with gum disease had a 19% higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The study followed over 15,000 adults for an average of 11 years, and those with gum disease were more likely to experience a heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular event. While the study could not prove that gum disease causes heart disease, it does suggest that there may be a correlation between the two.

Another study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that individuals with periodontal disease had higher levels of inflammation in their bodies, which is a known risk factor for heart disease. The study suggested that treating gum disease could help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

It’s important to note that not all studies have found a significant correlation between tooth and gum health and heart health. However, the scientific community generally agrees that maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing gum disease is an essential part of overall health and well being.

While the exact nature of the relationship between tooth and gum health and heart health is still being investigated, it is clear that taking care of your teeth and gums is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. By practicing good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups, you can help reduce your risk of developing gum disease and potentially improve your heart health as well.

Whether you have a mouthful of healthy “pearly whites” or the concern of gum disease, beginning and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will affect your entire body. And these strategies will certainly allow you to put your money where your mouth is.