The surprising link between oral health and cardiovascular disease

The surprising link between oral health and cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally, in 2020 approximately 19.1 million CVD deaths were recorded. The main risk factors everyone knows for CVD include smoking, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. 

Many people believe oral health is separate from overall health. But recent studies have shown that oral health can have a significant impact on the heart and blood vessels. 

The surprising link 

The surprising link between oral health and cardiovascular disease is inflammation! 

Chronic inflammation of the mouth could be caused by the likes of periodontal disease which can lead to inflammation throughout the body- causing the arteries to become narrow or blocked, leading to increased risk of CVD. 

Recent research shows the bacteria that can cause periodontal disease could enter the bloodstream and attach to the artery walls, which can lead to an elevated risk of blood clots and heart attacks. 

Poor oral hygiene and gum disease has also been linked to other risks of CVD such as diabetes and high blood pressure. 

Maintaining good oral hygiene 

Maintaining good oral health is essential for good overall health and well-being. Here are some simple and effective ways for maintaining good oral health: 

• Brushing your teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes each time, helps to remove plaque and prevent cavities. 

• Floss daily as it helps to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gum line. loss gently and use a new section for each tooth. 

• Limit sugary and acidic food and drinks as they can damage your teeth and contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. 

• Drink plenty of water: water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that encourages tooth decay and gum disease. It also helps keep your mouth hydrated and reduce dry mouth. 

• Visit your dentist regularly- regular check-ups and cleanings can help prevent and detect any problems before they become serious. Dentists can also provide more personalised tips for keeping good oral health at home. 

By following these simple tips, you can maintain good oral health, reducing the risk of gum disease, tooth decay and even cardiovascular disease. 

Remember to Floss and that a healthy mouth is essential for a healthy body!