September the 29th is know for being the Wold Heart Day and it’s puropose is to remind us that cardiovascular diseases are responsible for 17.5 milions of lifes every year. This group of diseases are the main cause of death in developed countries and represent 45% of all deaths in Europe. The relationship between alcohol, smoking, saturated fats and cardiovascular disease is well-known, but we often ignore the fact that oral health is intimately linked to systemic and cardiovascular health.

Heart health is connected to oral health. In fact, the European Society of Cardiology has considered periodontal disease as a risk factor for the development of heart diseases such as angina pectoris or heart attack.

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease that affects the sorrounding tissues of teeth. It is the sixth most prevalent non-contagious disease in the world according to WHO. This disease has a bacterial origin and is described as a gingival inflammation that, if left untreated, may end up causing bone loss or, ultimately, tooth loss.

What is the connection between heart health and oral health?

Bacteria present in the gums of patients that suffer from periodontal disease get spread through the blood circulation and develop a systemic inflammatory response. This may activate distant local process such as bacterial endocarditis or cardiovascular accidents.

Symptoms of periodontal disease

Those suffering from periodontal disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis have a 25% higher chance of developing heart diseases.

Among the symptoms of periodontal disease, the following should be highlighted:

• Inflammed and red gums
• Bleeding of the gums when brushing o using dental floss
• Suppuration of the gums
• Bad breath
• Gingival recession or exposure of the root surface
• Loose teeth
• Hypersensitivity
• Gingival abscess

How can it be prevented?

Among the most easy and efficient ways to prevent the above-mentioned diseases, from Terrassa, we recommend all our patients:

• To brush twice daily for two minutes with the appropiate technique
• To use the adequate tooth paste
• To floss or use interpoximal toothbrush daily
• To visit your dentist at least one a year to complete a comprehensive exam and have a professional profilaxis (cleaning) done.