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Link Between Oral and Heart Health

by | Health

I’ve always been fascinated by the numbers the dental hygienist calls out while examining my teeth and gums just before a cleaning…1, 2, 1, 1, 3, 2, 2, 3, 1, etc. At the end of the counting, she usually says, “Things look good,” and moves on to the next step.

I interpreted “Things look good” to mean there was no cause for concern. I would keep up my oral hygiene routine (daily flossing, brushing after meals, using mouthwash), so I didn’t bother to ask what the numbers meant.

Until a recent visit when I heard some 4s and 5s in the string. Yikes!

You see, it had been nearly two years since my last check-up, which I usually scheduled every six months to a year. Somehow, time got away from me.

Because the link between oral and heart health is an area of growing interest in medical research, I decided to dig deeper. Here’s what I discovered.

The link between oral health and heart health
    1. Chronic inflammation is believed to be a common factor in both gum disease (periodontitis) and cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke. Inflammation in the gums can release inflammatory markers into the bloodstream, which may contribute to inflammation in the arteries and other parts of the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart disease.
    2. Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the gums. When gum tissue becomes inflamed and infected, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, potentially causing or contributing to the development of cardiovascular issues. Some research suggests that certain bacteria commonly found in gum disease may also be present in arterial plaque, further linking oral bacteria to heart health.
    3. The body’s immune response to gum disease may also play a role in the connection between oral health and heart health. When the immune system is activated to fight oral bacteria and inflammation, it may also contribute to inflammation in other parts of the body, including the cardiovascular system.
    4. Endothelial dysfunction, which refers to impaired function of the endothelial cells lining the blood vessels, is a hallmark of cardiovascular disease. Some studies suggest that inflammation and bacterial toxins associated with gum disease may contribute to endothelial dysfunction, thereby increasing the risk of poor cardiovascular health.

Caring for your oral health is easy…when you are intentional about your daily routine.

Key practices to keep your mouth clean and your heart healthy
    1. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein (chicken, fish, turkey, beans, lentils, tofu, unsweetened yogurt), and healthful fats (olives, olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds, fish). Avoid sugary and highly acidic foods and beverages, as they can contribute to tooth decay and erosion.
    2. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially after meals and snacks. Water helps rinse away food particles and neutralize acids in the mouth, reducing the risk of cavities and promoting saliva production, which helps protect against tooth decay.
    3. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after meals. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions to clean all surfaces of your teeth and gums. You might also consider an electric toothbrush. Be sure to replace your toothbrush/toothbrush head every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
    4. Floss between your teeth at least once daily to remove plaque and food particles that your toothbrush can’t reach. Proper flossing technique involves gently sliding the floss between each tooth and along the gum line, forming a “C” shape to hug the tooth and remove debris.
    5. Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce plaque and bacteria in your mouth. Rinse after brushing and flossing or as directed by your dentist. One of my favorite mouthwashes is Tooth & Gums Tonic by Dental Herb. It is formulated to reduce bacteria and control gum inflammation using essential oils and organic herbal extracts.
    6. Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings with your dentist, ideally every six months. Your dentist can detect early signs of oral health problems, provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar, and offer personalized advice for maintaining oral hygiene.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine and visiting your dentist regularly, you can maintain good oral health and reduce the potential risk of heart disease.

One simple action this week:

Brush, floss, rinse, and repeat!