Tooth Loss may be associated with Heart Disease

A recent study, presented at a meeting of the American College of Cardiology reported that “losing teeth may be associated with higher risk for heart disease”.  This is similar to reports in recent years that gum disease is likely associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, possibly due to bacterial levels and associated inflammation.  The researchers apparently studied over 300,00 Americans between 49 and 70 years old.  They found that of those studied, 28% who had lost all of their teeth to gum disease also had heart disease.  Only 7% of those who had kept all of their teeth had heart disease.  Clearly, although the study did not include other potential factors, it does seem that there is an association between gum disease related tooth loss and heart disease, even if no defined cause and effect has been proven so far.  Another report that analyzed 81 studies totaling more than 200,000 people, published in Cardiovascular Research, showed a similar relationship between the severity of gum disease and the incidence of high blood pressure.

The evidence seems to be accumulating that the long-term effects of gum disease is not something that can be completely confined to the oral environment.  Even if science has not completely established links between gum disease and other health issues, it seems logical that the bacteria associated with gum disease can migrate to other areas of your body and possibly cause (at the least) inflammation.  To be on the safe side and try to insure your overall health, keeping your mouth clean and healthy is a great start.  Keep regular checkup visits and practice good home care (flossing, diet, etc.).  Your whole body will thank you.