Recognize the Dangers of Gum Disease This Wear Red Day
February 1, 2019
In 2019, National Wear Red Day falls on February 1st. This day is meant to raise awareness of cardiovascular diseases. There are many ways to reduce your risk of heart disease, such as quitting tobacco and being physically active every single day. You can also reduce your risk by avoiding gum disease. Researchers have discovered a potential correlation between periodontitis and heart disease, and you need to be aware of how your mouth impacts the rest of your body.
What Does the Data Say?
Right now, the data is circumstantial. More studies are necessary to prove a cause and effect between poor oral health and poor cardiovascular health. It is possible that people who do not take good care of their teeth do not take good care of the rest of their body.
The possible link in question deals with inflammation. When you eat unhealthy foods and do not clean your teeth, then harmful bacteria enter the gum tissue, leading to inflammation. As a result, bacteria and toxins enter blood vessels in the mouth, possibly going to the heart. This can potentially trigger inflammation elsewhere in the body.
The greatest piece of evidence to support this is that Streptococcus sanguis, which is a common form of bacteria found with periodontal disease, has been found in other parts of the body. It can lead to thickening within the carotid arteries, and when blood cannot flow properly to the brain, you also increase your risk of having a stroke. Ultimately, you want as little of this bacterium as possible around your body.
Who Should You Contact?
There are many other reasons why you want to avoid gum disease. J. Robert Friedberg, D.M.D. is a skilled Houston, TX periodontist who can eliminate any existing bacteria you have in your gum tissue. Get in touch with Dr. Friedberg’s office today so that you can have a healthier mouth this National Wear Red Day.