The link between poor oral hygiene and an increased risk of heart disease has long been known in science. Even though the extent and exact forms of the connection are still being researched, we have enough evidence to say that it is extremely important to pay attention to our oral health.
The interesting results of a Taiwanese study in 2011 caught the attention of many researchers. The study found that people who went to the dentist regularly had a 24% lower risk of heart attack and a 13% lower risk of stroke than those who did not pay attention to professional oral care. The research was based on the data of the Taiwan National Health Insurance Database. By analysing the data of 100 000 people, the results were clear. In the conclusion, the researchers pointed out that with the recommended annual tartar removal, we are already doing a lot for our health.
A few years later, another study was published based on the research of the University of Bristol and the Dublin based Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland. The microbiologists have analysed not only health insurance statistics but also specific correlations. The researchers have demonstrated and explained clearly the links between oral hygiene and other health problems.
Those who do not pay enough attention to dental hygiene will sooner or later have to deal with dental problems, such as bleeding gums. Gum injury allows hundreds of pathogens in the mouth to enter our body’s bloodstream directly.
How can poor oral hygiene cause a heart attack or stroke?
Based on scientific research, oral hygiene problems are directly linked to other health problems, including an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. As the damaged gum is a gateway for pathogens to the bloodstream, the pathogens from the mouth meet the thrombocytes that are responsible for blood clotting and cause them to stick together. The resulting blood clots partially block the veins, increasing the risk of heart attack. All in all, according to the scientists, oral bacteria such as Streptococcus gordonii and Streptococcus sanguinis are risk factors for heart disease.
To conclude, the research supports with laboratory tests the previously observed phenomenon. The results suggest that no matter how much we care about our general health, if our teeth and mouth are neglected, our chances of having a heart attack increase significantly.
Regular dental check-ups are essential to prevent much more serious health issues. It is worth taking care of our oral health.
You can read additional interesting details in the topic here: http://www.webbeteg.hu/cikkek/fogaszat/11444/fogmosas-es-szivbetegseg (Hungarian)
