Gum Disease and Heart Attacks

You are probably hearing through aired media and perhaps in your dental office the persuasive argument that gum disease can lead to heart attacks. But will treatment of gum disease reduce heart attacks? Unfortunately, this question cannot be clearly answered. Let’s briefly examine where the connection of gum disease and heart disease is known to exist.

There are a certain number of people in a population that have high risk factors for heart disease. This may be due to smoking, genes, life styles, “good and bad” cholesterol levels, and c-reactive proteins (CRP). CRP’s are produced as a result of damage to the inner lining of the blood vessels that supply the heart muscle. Also, C-reactive protein levels rise when chronic inflammation is present. The American Heart Association has recommended using the CRP test as one of the indicators of risk level for heart disease.

Where is the connection with gum disease? Periodontitis or gum disease is a chronic inflammatory disease process that can lead to loss of bone around the teeth. The association seems to be that the chronic inflammation component of gum disease adds to the chronic inflammatory load the body must endure. There is no good outcome to a high chronic inflammatory level.

We have to examine what underlying conditions can cause both diseases as well as the effect gum disease can have on heart disease. For example, smoking has been shown to have an overwhelming affect on gum health. In fact, studies that measure treatments for gum disease become meaningless in smokers. Smoking has also been shown to cause damage to vascular tissues and increase the risk of having a heart attack.

Other underlying conditions also include the genetic factor. Some people are more prone to inflammation and metabolic disease. Studies are mixed, but it seems that a healthy diet low in saturated fats can help minimize the harmful effects of this condition.

Let’s get back to the dental factor. We know that bleeding gums will allow bacteria into the blood stream and these bacteria can grow in damaged vessels perpetuating the heart disease process. The dentist’s role is to help control the infection and inflammation levels with gum treatments and frequent monitoring of home care.

Regular cleanings of the bacteria encrusted surfaces of your teeth is a proven method to stop the destruction caused by these bugs. Surgery may be needed from the periodontist. Maintenance is required because these bugs can double in population every twenty minutes. I have seen periodontal disease that has been in remission only to suddenly (within 6 weeks) strike up again. That is why frequent monitoring is crucial.

Will treatment of gum disease prevent heart attacks? Periodontal disease is just one pathway of inflammation that can further deteriorate the lining of the heart and blood vessels. Your dentist is a very important “team” member along with the cardiologist and physician to maintain a level of general health that will prevent heart attacks.

For answers to your dental questions, contact
Douglas Urban, D.D.S.
Cerritos, CA 90703
562 924-1523
DrDouglasUrban.com