Neglecting Oral Hygiene May Be Harming Your Heart, Expert Warns

The mouth is frequently referred to as a mirror of overall health — and with good reason. Increasing research highlights a strong connection between inadequate dental care and heart disease. Though they may appear unrelated, your oral health can significantly impact your cardiovascular well-being.

Gum disease and oral infections can spark inflammation, allow dangerous bacteria to enter the bloodstream, and, in severe instances, result in direct infection of heart tissue. These processes can collectively lead to serious and potentially life-threatening cardiovascular problems.

Periodontitis, a severe  gum disease, lies at the heart of this connection. It develops from prolonged plaque buildup and poor oral hygiene. If not addressed, plaque causes irritation and inflammation in the gums, eventually leading to gum recession and tissue damage.

As the gum tissue breaks down, it becomes easier for bacteria in the mouth to access the bloodstream. Everyday activities like brushing, flossing, chewing, or undergoing dental treatments can create pathways for these microbes to spread through the body.

Once in the bloodstream, some bacteria can bind to the endothelium—the inner lining of blood vessels—compromising the vascular barrier and facilitating the spread of infection to other areas, including vital organs. In extreme cases, this can result in organ failure or even death.

Swelling and microbial invasion

One of the primary ways oral health impacts heart health is through systemic inflammation. Chronic periodontitis can trigger an ongoing immune response, leading to elevated levels of inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein and cytokines.

These substances can harm the inner lining of blood vessels and promote atherosclerosis —a condition where the arteries narrow, blood pressure rises, and the chances of heart attacks and strokes increase significantly.

Inflammation is now understood not just as a symptom of heart disease but as a key contributor to its development. This growing awareness positions oral hygiene as a vital part of cardiovascular disease prevention, rather than merely a cosmetic issue.

Additionally, poor dental hygiene can raise the risk of infective endocarditis (IE), a dangerous infection of the heart’s inner lining or valves. This condition often arises when oral bacteria—particularly from the streptococcus viridans group—enter the bloodstream and infect damaged areas of the heart.

Increased Risk of Infective Endocarditis in Patients with Heart Valve Issues

Individuals with existing heart valve issues, prosthetic valves, or congenital heart defects are especially at risk. For those with certain heart conditions or artificial valves, dentists may prescribe antibiotics before specific procedures to lower the chance of developing infective endocarditis (IE). IE is a serious condition that demands urgent medical attention, often requiring extended antibiotic therapy or, in some cases, surgery.

Population-based studies reinforce the connection between oral and heart health. People with gum disease are notably more likely to develop cardiovascular conditions. Although these studies don’t always establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, the associations remain strong—even after adjusting for common risk factors like smoking, diabetes, and an unhealthy diet.

One study revealed that individuals with periodontitis were up to twice as likely to develop coronary artery disease compared to those with healthy gums. Other research has identified a “dose-response” relationship: the more advanced the gum disease, the higher the risk to heart health.

Mouth bacteria ecosystem

Smoking, poor nutrition, excessive alcohol intake, and diabetes are all factors that negatively impact both oral and heart health. Tobacco weakens gum tissue and impairs the immune system, while Alcohol can  cause dry mouth and disturb the balance of bacteria in the mouth. Uncontrolled diabetes hampers blood flow and delays healing, exacerbating both gum disease and heart conditions.

Rather than undermining the research, this overlap highlights the importance of a holistic approach to health. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits supports overall well-being, not just individual parts of the body.

New research indicates that oral hygiene might impact heart health by altering the body’s microbiome. When oral care is neglected, harmful bacteria can outnumber beneficial ones, leading to an imbalance called dysbiosis. This microbial disruption can impair immune function and promote chronic inflammation and the development of atherosclerosis.

A Key but Not Sole Factor in Reducing Heart Disease Risk

It’s important to note that good oral hygiene by itself won’t eliminate the risk of heart disease. Factors like genetics, diet, physical activity, and existing health conditions are also key contributors. However, taking care of your teeth and gums is a straightforward, effective, and frequently underestimated component of preventive health. Consistent brushing and flossing, regular dental checkups, and timely treatment of gum issues can help lower the risk of broader health problems.

Health professionals are increasingly acknowledging the value of collaboration. Cardiologists are being encouraged to inquire about patients’ oral health, while dentists are urged to assess cardiovascular risk factors during checkups. This combined approach can result in earlier detection, more tailored treatment, and improved long-term health outcomes.

The mouth is much more than just the start of the digestive system – it is essential for overall health. The link between oral health and heart disease highlights the importance of considering oral care as a key element of preventive healthcare. By adopting good habits, people can safeguard not only their smile but also their heart.

Read the original article on: Sciencealert

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