Periodontal Disease, Heart Disease and Stroke

Periodontal disease, heart disease and stroke may seem unlikely to be connected, but researchers have found that those affected by periodontal disease are nearly twice as likely to suffer from coronary heart disease. In addition, research has discovered that oral infection is indeed a risk factor for stroke. People diagnosed with acute cerebrovascular ischemia were more likely to also experience some degree of periodontal disease.

Coronary heart disease occurs when the walls of the coronary arteries become progressively thicker due to the buildup of fatty proteins. With reduced oxygen, the heart must labor significantly harder to pump oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. Coronary heart disease patients sometimes experience blood clots that obstruct normal blood flow and reduce the amount of vital nutrients and oxygen the heart needs to function properly. This phenomenon often leads to heart attacks.

Reasons for the Connection

There is little doubt that the presence of periodontal disease can exacerbate existing heart conditions. A periodontist and cardiologist generally work as a team in order to treat individuals experiencing both conditions.

There are several theories which may explain the link between heart disease, stroke and periodontal disease, which include the following:

• Oral bacteria affect the heart – There are many different strains of periodontal bacteria. Researchers assert that some of these strains of bacteria enter the bloodstream and attach to the fatty plaques in the heart blood vessels (coronary arteries). This attachment then contributes to clot formation.
  
  
• Inflammation – Periodontal disease causes inflammation in the gum tissue, elevating white blood cell count and high sensitivity C-reactive protein levels. Research studies have shown that elevated levels of C-reactive proteins have been linked to heart disease.
  
  
• Infectious susceptibility – Individuals who experience particularly high levels of oral bacteria may have weaker immune systems and an inadequate host inflammatory response. These factors may induce specific vascular effects which have previously been shown to contribute in the onset of certain forms of heart disease.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Since periodontal disease appears to be a risk factor for both heart attack and stroke, it is extremely important to seek immediate treatment. Initially, a periodontist should conduct thorough examinations to assess the exact condition of the teeth, gums and underlying bone. X-rays are useful in determining whether bone loss is prevalent.

Dentists are able to conduct deep cleaning treatments such as scaling and root planing to remove plaque and calculus (tartar) deposits from the gum pockets and teeth. An antibiotic may be prescribed to ensure that the bacterium is completely destroyed and the periodontal infection does not spread. In most cases, periodontal disease can be prevented with regular cleanings and proper home care.

If you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease and its relation to heart disease and stroke, please ask your dentist.