Oral health and heart diseases

Heart disease and oral health: role 

of oral bacteria in heart plaque

BOSTON, MA — The billions of bacteria and other microscopic critters that live in the mouth unquestionably influence the health of teeth and gums. But do they also cause problems for the heart and blood vessels? And can improving oral health prevent cardiovascular problems?
The notion that problems in the mouth cause diseases elsewhere in the body makes sense but has been difficult to prove, explains the Harvard Heart Letter. Scientists are exploring several mechanisms that may connect the two processes. In people with periodontitis (erosion of tissue and bone that support the teeth), chewing and toothbrushing release bacteria into the bloodstream. Several species of bacteria that cause periodontitis have been found in the atherosclerotic plaque in arteries in the heart and elsewhere. This plaque can lead to heart attack.
Oral bacteria could also harm blood vessels or cause blood clots by releasing toxins that resemble proteins found in artery walls or the bloodstream. The immune system's response to these toxins could harm vessel walls or make blood clot more easily. It is also possible that inflammation in the mouth revs up inflammation throughout the body, including in the arteries, where it can lead to heart attack and stroke.
Although we sill have a lot to learn about whether, and how, periodontitis and other oral problems are linked to heart disease, the Harvard Heart Letter notes that it still makes good sense to take care of your teeth. Brush and floss every day, and see your dentist at least twice a year for regular cleanings and oral exams. This will pay off for your oral health and just may benefit your heart as well.

Did you know the mouth is the window to the body? Recent research suggests a link between oral health and heart disease, stroke, preterm births, diabetes and respiratory disease.* In fact, a visit to the dentist could detect more than just a  cavity, as often the first sign of a medical condition will appear in the mouth. This new OnQ series focuses on the importance of dental and oral  care, and its impact on your overall health. *Oral Health in America, A Report of the Surgeon General, 2000 Watch for new video every day this week!

Taking good care of your teeth is important to overall health. The mouth is where your body  starts to break  down food so that it can get the vitamins and minerals you need to grow. ORAL HEALTH AND HEART DISEASE Nearly 16 million American adults suffer from one or more types of cardiovascular  disease. There is growing evidence that the infection associated with periodontal disease can travel  throughout your body. Some studies suggest the body's response to this infection can increase the risk of  cardiovascular  diseases such as stroke, heart attack, coronary artery disease and atherosclerosis  (narrowing of the arteries). Taking preventive measures is one way to help decrease your risk. Talk to your dentist about your risks, and remember to follow a keep up with your dental duo--rigorous home care and  regular dentist visits. Periodontal Disease - An infection of the tissues that support teeth. There are two types: Gingivitis - an infection of the gums around the teeth Periodontitis - more severe than gingivitis because the infection has spread to the bone  that support s the teeth SYMPTOMS: Red, swollen or tender gums Bleeding while brushing or flossing Gums that pull away from teeth Loss or separating of teeth Red, white or swollen areas of mouth Persistent bad breath Also in this issue of the Harvard Heart Letter Simple changes in diet can protect you against friendly fire Put some bite into heart disease prevention Blood pressure drugs can boost blood sugar Fish: Friend or foe? Heart Beat: Dancing away from heart failure Heart Beat: Too soon to sell a gene test for warfarin? Heart Beat: Is there an afterlife for pacemakers and defibrillators? Ask the doctor: What are the symptoms of, and tests for, an enlarged heart? Ask the doctor: What's the skinny on fat-free half-and-half?