Gum Diseases Threaten Heart Health

One in every three deaths worldwide occurs due to heart disease. This situation demonstrates that cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide. In Turkey, there are around 3 million coronary heart disease patients, and 90,000 new cases are added each year. On the other hand, recent studies have revealed the connection between gum diseases and heart diseases.

Gum disease feeds bacteria

As is the case worldwide, gum diseases, which are common in Turkey as well, increase with age. Recent research has revealed that gum diseases, known as periodontal diseases, are related to cardiovascular diseases.Gum disease can feed bacteria that adhere to fatty deposits in the bloodstream and blood vessels, and this can lead to blood clotting, causing a heart attack. According to research, only 3 out of every 100 people between the ages of 30 and 35 in Turkey do not have any oral and dental health problems. The rate of dental check-ups in our country is still very low. However, if oral and gum diseases are not controlled, they can reach a point that threatens general health.

Those with heart disease can reach the point of high risk.

If you have heart disease, you may be at risk of developing bacterial endocarditis, which affects the inner surface of the heart or the heart valves. Whenever there is bleeding in the mouth, certain oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and settle in tissues weakened by an existing heart problem or cardiac condition, or in problematic heart valves.In such cases, the infection may cause damage to the heart valves or tissue or lead to tissue loss.

Regular oral and dental care is essential

Gingivitis, tooth loss, and other oral and dental diseases constitute a significant risk factor for the development of coronary artery disease, carotid artery thinning, stroke, and other types of heart disease. Proper and regular oral care is the most effective way to prevent tooth decay, gum diseases, and odontogenic infections.

Kaynakça:

• American Heart Association. Periodontal Disease and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: Scientific Statement. Circulation.

• European Society of Cardiology & European Federation of Periodontology. Periodontitis and Cardiovascular Diseases – Consensus Report. European Heart Journal.

• American Academy of Periodontology. Gum Disease and Heart Disease – Clinical Resources.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Periodontal Disease and Systemic Health Conditions.

• Turkish Dental Association. Turkey Oral and Dental Health Reports.

• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Periodontal (Gum) Disease and Systemic Health.