The 29th of September marks World Heart Day, an annual event organised by the World Heart Federation. World Heart Day is a time for sharing information and spreading awareness, ensuring people all over the world can access the care and treatment they need to keep their hearts healthy.
As the UK’s leading provider of dental care, an important part of our work at mydentist is encouraging good oral health practice in our patients, ensuring that their teeth and gums are well cared for and their oral health is maintained.
This World Heart Day, we wanted to discuss research linking the health of your gums with the health of your heart. Join us as we explore gum disease and the importance of a consistent oral health routine in limiting the impact poor gum health can have on your cardiovascular health and well-being.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is caused by bacteria in the mouth, leading to inflammation and infection of the gums. It progresses in two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease, manifests as red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If untreated, it typically advances to periodontitis, where the infection spreads to the tissues and bone supporting the teeth.
What causes gum disease?
Poor oral hygiene is the primary cause of periodontal disease, as it allows plaque and tartar to accumulate. Other risk factors include smoking, hormonal changes, certain medications, genetics and underlying health conditions like diabetes.
The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE), suggests that almost half of adults in the UK have a degree of periodontitis that is not reversible. While the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that periodontal disease affects around 19% of the global adult population, with more than a billion cases worldwide.
Gum disease is incredibly common and despite gum disease having some obvious tell-tale signs, some people may not experience noticeable symptoms, making regular dental check-ups vital for early detection.
Symptoms of periodontal disease that you should look out for include:
- Tender or bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
If you’re exhibiting any of these symptoms and have not recently seen your dentist for a check-up, or you’re concerned about your oral health, we recommend contacting your local mydentist practice to schedule a thorough assessment of your oral health.
The connection between gum disease and cardiovascular health
But how can the health of your gums increase your risk of a cardiovascular condition?
Put simply, research suggests that bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream through the gums, especially during brushing or flossing. Once in the bloodstream, these bacteria can travel to various parts of the body, including the heart, potentially leading to cardiovascular diseases. Studies have found that gum disease may have implications for your cardiovascular health, including an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
In addition, it appears that gender doesn’t play a role in how susceptible you are to developing a cardiovascular illness due to poor oral health, with conditions like stroke, myocardial infarction and cardiovascular disease presenting equally in both men and women of all ages studied.
How to prevent gum disease?
This World Heart Day, we want to encourage our patients to take care of themselves and to speak to their dentist if they feel something is amiss with their oral health. Maintaining regular and effective oral health routine won’t just improve your dental health; it could improve your confidence in your smile and reduce your risk of developing a more serious medical condition.
We recommend that to maintain your oral health at home, you brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, ensuring you clean all surfaces, including the gumline. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen breath.
Regular dental check-ups allow for early detection and intervention. Your dentist can identify signs of gum disease and provide appropriate treatment. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar, which are major contributors to periodontal disease.
Lifestyle changes can also help. Avoid smoking or using tobacco products, maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and manage stress effectively to support your immune system. If you’re concerned about gum disease, the NHS have provided helpful guidance to help you prevent infection and keep your gums in tip-top shape on their website.
We believe it's essential to recognise the connection between oral health and cardiovascular well-being. By taking care of your gums, you are not only protecting your teeth but also potentially reducing your risk of heart disease and stroke. A consistent oral health routine—brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups—plays a crucial role in keeping both your mouth and heart healthy.
This World Heart Day, we ask our patients to remember that a healthy smile goes hand-in-hand with a healthy heart. If you're new to mydentist and looking for a practice, find your local mydentist practice today. Or, browse our comprehensive treatment offering or find more information about mydentist at www.mydentist.co.uk.