Saturday, 22 June 2013

Making the Heart Tick Better with Healthier Teeth

Little did I know that apart from making hearts go aflutter with my winning smile, a better dental regime could also contribute to a healthier heart for my own self.  Listening to expert advice about the links between my teeth and ticker was quite a revelation and shed light on the importance of proper brushing, flossing and following the recommendations of a Vancouver Dentist for alleviating the risks of heart diseases and attacks.

The role of gum diseases in heightening the risks of heart ailments

Patients diagnosed for gum diseases such as Gingivitis, which results in infection and inflammation of the gums and Periodontitis which occurs as a result of infiltration of infection into the ligaments and bones beyond, are twice at risk of suffering from heart ailments than others.

According to recent surveys conducted across 320 adults, over half of the participants suffering from tooth loss, bleeding gums, poor dental health and gum diseases were found to be patients of cardiac diseases as well.

Healthier teeth actually prevents heart diseases and strokes

According to Dr. Spalding from the University Of Nebraska Medical Center College Of Dentistry in Lincoln, the risk of gum diseases increases because of the plaque formation on teeth caused due to poor flossing and brushing. This in turn leads to bleeding gums and passing of bacterial infection into the blood stream which triggers off an inflammatory process in the vessels linked to the heart.

The environment created by this bacterial invasion increases the risk factors connected with heart diseases and contributes to clot formations and further build up of plaque in the arteries. This interferes with the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system and blood flow, which leads to heart attacks and diseases.

Atherosclerosis or the hardening of blood vessels presents a strong component of inflammation which is also a progressive stage of plaque formation in the arteries. Apart from reviews which suggest a positive linking of gum diseases with risk factors of coronary arterial diseases, the analysis reports of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) also recommends healthier teeth and oral conditions for alleviating the risks of insufficient supply of blood and oxygen to the brain through clogged blood vessels.

Warning signals which should give way to preventive measures

The experts at the American Academy of Periodontology opine that prevention of gum diseases should start at an early age with regular dental check-ups, flossing and brushing. Patients  should  also look out for tell tale signs such as persistent bad breath, a sour taste in the mouth, swollen and tender gums, bleeding , loose and sensitive teeth and pain while chewing, which act as warning signals for impending cardiac issues.

Apart from uncovering the possible connection between strokes and dental problems, dentists are also finding conclusive evidence about the connection of the latter with respiratory diseases, diabetes, osteoporosis and preterm babies. Prevention of gum diseases through medical intervention, surgery and deep cleanings, go a long way in reducing the risk of ailments connected with the heart and other body systems.

According to a reputed Vancouver dentist, the plausible reasons intertwining a healthier heart with healthy teeth, establish the importance of regular dental checks and healthy oral hygiene regimes.

No comments:

Post a Comment