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CHICAGO (April 16, 2009) - Research has shown that over 90 percent of all systemic diseases are linked to oral symptoms. A sore or painful jaw could indicate an impending heart attack or heart disease and dry mouth could be a sign of diabetes. Studies have also suggested that people who have periodontal disease (gum disease) seem to be at a higher risk for heart attacks. Yet, while signs in the mouth can help diagnose problems in the body, the question still remains, can gum disease and bacteria in the mouth really cause other life threatening health issues?
Congestive heart failure affects more than three million people in the United States, with approximately 400,000 new cases each year and three out four adults are affected by gum disease at some point in their life.
However, according to a study that appears in General Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry’s clinical, peer reviewed journal, “A number of clinical studies have demonstrated that the two diseases are associated…a cause and effect has yet to be shown.”
The current theory is that bacteria present in infected gums can come loose and move throughout the body. The same bacteria that cause gum disease and irritate gums might travel to arteries. If bacteria reach the arteries, they can irritate them in the same way that they irritate gum tissue. This could cause arterial plaque to accumulate, which can cause hardening of the arteries and decreased or blocked blood flow. Compromised blood flow to the heart can cause a heart attack.
However, lead author of the study, James W. Little, DMD, says, “No single risk factor is responsible for coronary atherosclerosis, the hardening or narrowing of the arteries, which is the major cause of heart attacks.”
Dr. Little does recommend that patients with a history of certain heart conditions take precaution when performing their daily oral health care routines such as flossing and brushing; especially within the first six months following a procedure related to the heart, in order to prevent medical issues such as endocarditis, an infection of the inner lining of the heart valve.
“The cleaner the mouth, the less likely that bacteria from daily activities will occur,” says Dr. Little. “These patients may also require antibiotic prophylaxis for dental procedures such as tooth cleaning, extractions, periodontal treatment and other oral health procedures.”
Whatever the case, symptom or oral heath concern, AGD spokesperson, Anne Murray, DDS, FAGD, says, “Your general dentist is usually the first to detect serious problems that may require the attention of a physician and a twice–a-year dental visits may very well help to eliminate long term overall health problems.”
The AGD supports the American Heart Association’s statement concerning oral health and cardiovascular disease (CVD).
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The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) is a professional association of more than 35,000 general dentists dedicated to staying up to date in the profession through continuing education. Founded in 1952, the AGD has grown to become the second-largest dental association in the United States, and it is the only association that exclusively represents the needs and interests of general dentists. More than 772,000 persons in the United States are employed directly in the field of dentistry. A general dentist is the primary care provider for patients of all ages and is responsible for the diagnosis, treatment, management and overall coordination of services related to patients’ oral health needs. Learn more about AGD member dentists or find more information on dental health topics at www.KnowYourTeeth.com. Contact: The AGD public relations department at 312.440.4346 or media@agd.org. Note: Information that appears in General Dentistry, the AGD's peer-reviewed journal, AGD Impact, the AGD's newsmagazine, and related press releases do not necessarily reflect the endorsement of the AGD. |
