There is growing evidence of a significant link between oral
health and heart health. In fact, some doctors now think that gum
disease, tooth decay, and missing teeth are as symptomatic of potential or
impending heart disease as is high cholesterol. So don't be surprised if your
cardiologist grills you about your last dental check-up.
And vice versa. Your dentist may want to discuss your heart
health before performing a dental
procedure on you. Some dentists will delay dental work – even a simple
cleaning – if you are experiencing significant heart issues or have just
undergone a heart procedure.
A Landmark Scientific Study Shows the Link Between Oral Health and Heart Heath
In 2005, Dr. Moise Desvarieux published a landmark paper in an American Heart Association journal that showed a connection between periodontal bacterial infections and cardiovascular disease. The paper revealed that 657 volunteers were interviewed and tested extensively, making this a large-scale clinical study with impactful results.
The analysis of the data was adjusted for age, ethnicity,
education level, body mass index, lifestyle factors (such as smoking), and chronic
diseases (such as type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol). Similar subsequent studies
discuss their results in relationship to this landmark study, which has raised
public awareness of the link
between oral health and cardiovascular disease.
How Are Oral Health and Heart Health Related
The specific connection between oral health and heart health
has yet to be determined, but researchers have gathered some significant clues:
When there is inflammation in your mouth, the bacteria produce a byproduct
called high sensitivity C-reaction protein (HS-CRP). This protein enters the
bloodstream and creates havoc in the body, damaging the liver and the heart in
the process. Your doctor can test for HS-CRP in the blood. A concentration
level of more than 1 percent is an indication of potential arterial damage and
heart disease. It is a sign that you need to take steps to protect your heart,
such as exercising more and eating a more heart-healthy diet. Reducing your
overall inflammation can also be a very positive preventative step and can be
accomplished by eating more green leafy vegetables and taking a spirulina supplement.
A Holistic Dentist Can Help
If you live in the Washington, D.C. area and have concerns about the link between your oral health and potential heart disease, consult a D.C. holistic dentist. Prevention is the best cure, and a holistic dentist is trained to treat the body as a whole. The health of your mouth and the health of your body should no longer be treated as distinct and isolated units. A holistic dentist can help you explore the relationship between the health of your mouth and your heart for a better overall you.
Terry Victor, DDS – Washington DC
Dentist
509 11th St SE Washington, DC 20003
(202) 544-3626
http://www.thedcdentist.com/
https://plus.google.com/116338970420867784677/
509 11th St SE Washington, DC 20003
(202) 544-3626
http://www.thedcdentist.com/
https://plus.google.com/116338970420867784677/
