Recent findings highlight an important but often overlooked connection between oral health and the risk of developing serious cardiovascular diseases. Dr. Victoria Karataeva, chief physician at the dental clinic “All Yours,” has raised concerns that chronic gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis may increase the likelihood of conditions like atherosclerosis, strokes, and heart attacks.
Chronic gum inflammation, especially when accompanied by bleeding, allows harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream. These microbes can travel through blood vessels, causing their walls to thicken. As the bacteria spread via the bloodstream, they have the potential to damage several key organs including the heart, kidneys, and eyes.
Medical experts say that the immune system’s reaction to ongoing gum inflammation plays a significant role. This process can trigger long-lasting inflammation throughout the body, affecting blood vessels and leading to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and blood clots. These changes are known contributors to heart attacks and strokes. Dr. Karataeva emphasized that cardiologists and eye specialists often refer patients to dentists to check for hidden oral infections.
Those most at risk include people already suffering from heart conditions, individuals with diabetes, smokers, and those who neglect to see a dentist or maintain proper dental hygiene. Regular dental checkups and maintaining good oral hygiene are key for preventing these diseases and can support the success of treatments for existing conditions.
Health professionals stress the importance of early diagnosis and addressing all possible sources of chronic infection to reduce the risk of serious illnesses. This evidence reinforces the message that taking care of your teeth and gums is an important part of overall health, especially in protecting the heart and blood vessels.
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