Recent research shows that treating gum disease may prevent heart attacks. Other conditions that have been linked to gum disease are diabetes, low birth weight babies and heart disease. Unhealthy conditions in the mouth can contribute to inflammation throughout the body, which has been associated with numerous diseases -- including cardiovascular disease.
"Certain bacteria present in the mouth may be related to clogging up the arteries by contributing to the plaque that builds on the walls of the arteries," said New York University oral microbiologist Walter Bretz.
"Systemically, visits to the dentist and hygienist may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and possibly heart attack, and can decrease the likelihood of tooth loss for diabetics," said Gwen Cohen-Brown, a dentist and lecturer for the New York State Department of Health.
Dentists generally recommend that patients have biannual visits with the dentist and hygienist, and brush after every meal. If this is not possible, try to at least brush in the morning and in the evening before bed, and floss daily.
Details of the study are in the March 1 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine:
For more detailed information, please click on the following links:
http://content.nejm.org/cgi/content/short/356/9/911
http://www.perio.org/consumer/nejm-perio-cardio.htm
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