Gum disease is known for its damaging effects on a person’s teeth, gums, and bone, but what about the body? There is research that claims the connection between periodontal disease and Alzheimer’s and heart disease, but what about high blood pressure? Read on to discover what experts are now saying about this connection and what you can do to minimize your risk.
Gum Disease and High Blood Pressure Link
According to researchers at the University College London Eastman Dental Institute, individuals with gum disease were more likely to suffer from high blood pressure as opposed to those whose gums were not inflamed or infected.
A 2020 study published in Cardiovascular Research showed a similar connection between gum disease and hypertension. Moderate periodontal disease sufferers were 22% more likely to have high blood pressure, and 49% of those with severe gum disease had it.
Because of the infection and inflammation caused by the oral health problem, it is also possible that treatments for high blood pressure may be hindered.
Ways to Minimize the Risk
Although with the study, researchers claimed that preventing gum disease may be a cost-effective way to not only minimize the risk of damage to the teeth, gums, and jawbone but also safeguard the lining inside a person’s heart and blood vessels.
A few of the most common ways to lower your risk of gum disease (and high blood pressure) include:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time
- Flossing at least once a day before bed or after every meal if you prefer
- Rinsing with a gingival mouthwash that reduces bad oral bacteria inside the mouth
- Keeping regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months with your dentist
- Practicing self-care with regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and de-stressing habits
- Seeking periodontal therapy should you show signs of periodontitis (i.e., scaling and root planing, antibiotic therapy).
- Quitting tobacco products and smoking
The mouth and body are so closely connected it can be difficult to identify symptoms if you aren’t sure what to look for. But should you see inflamed, bleeding gums that recede over time and cause bad breath, it’s best to seek a professional for treatment. This, in turn, will not only improve the state of your oral health but also reduce the time and money you’ll spend on treating overall health issues like high blood pressure.
About the Practice
The dental team at Indy Dental Group wants you to feel confident about your smile. Offering periodontal therapy to individuals who suffer from inflamed and bleeding gums, we can implement a strategy that eliminates bad oral bacteria and improved the state of your gum health. Contact us at (317) 846-6125 to find out how we can help you take charge of your oral health and achieve better whole-body wellness.