Periodontal Disease, Heart Disease and Stroke

Periodontal disease, heart disease and stroke may seem to be unlikely bedfellows, but researchers have found that gum disease sufferers are nearly twice as likely to also suffer from coronary heart disease.  In addition, research studies have discovered that oral infection is indeed a risk factor for stroke.  People diagnosed with acute cerebrovascular ischemia were more likely to also be experiencing some degree of periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease is a progressive condition in which the gingival tissue surrounding the teeth is infected by the colonization of bacteria.  Bacteria found in plaque colonize first above, then below the gumline, causing the tissue to pull away from the teeth.  If periodontal disease is left untreated, deep pockets form between the gums and the teeth and the tissue of the underlying jawbone is also destroyed.  The destruction of bone tissue causes the teeth to shift, wobble or completely detach from the bone.

Coronary heart disease occurs when the walls of the coronary arteries become progressively thicker due to the buildup of fatty proteins.  The heart then suffers from a lack of oxygen and must labor significantly harder to pump blood to the rest of the body.  Coronary heart disease sufferers sometimes experience blood clots which obstruct normal blood flow and reduce the amount of vital nutrients and oxygen the heart needs to function properly.  This phenomenon often leads to heart attacks.

Reasons for the Connection

There is little doubt that the presence of periodontal disease can exacerbate existing heart conditions.  The periodontist and cardiologist generally work as a team in order to treat individuals experiencing both conditions.

There are several theories which may explain the link between heart disease, stroke and periodontal disease, which include the following:

  • Oral bacteria affect the heart – There are many different strains of periodontal bacteria.  Researchers assert that some of these strains of bacteria enter the bloodstream and attach to the fatty plaques in the heart blood vessels (coronary arteries).  This attachment then contributes to clot formation causing grave danger to the individual.

  • Inflammation – Periodontal disease causes severe inflammation in the gum tissue which elevates the white blood cell count and also the high sensitivity C-reactive protein levels.  Research studies have shown that elevated levels of C-reactive proteins have been linked to heart disease.

  • Infectious susceptibility – Individuals who experience particularly high levels of oral bacteria may have weaker immune systems and an inadequate host inflammatory response.  These factors may induce specific vascular effects which have previously been shown to contribute in the onset of certain forms of heart disease.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Since periodontal disease appears to be a risk factor for both heart attack and stroke, it is extremely important to seek immediate treatment.  Initially, the periodontist will conduct thorough examinations to assess the exact condition of the teeth, gums and jawbone.  X-rays can be helpful in determining whether bone loss is prevalent in the upper and lower jaw.

The dentist is able to conduct deep cleaning treatments such as scaling and root planing to remove hardened calculus (tartar) deposits from the gum pockets.  An antibiotic may be prescribed to ensure that the bacterium is completely destroyed and the periodontal infection does not spread.  In most cases, periodontal disease can be prevented with regular cleanings and proper home care.

If you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease and its relation to heart disease and stroke, please contact our office.

Testimonials.

Read what people are saying about us.

read more

Testimonials

Been coming to Dr Max for over a decade. Best dentist in the game and a super nice guy. Treats his patients like family. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to anyone and everyone.

David A.

There are not enough kind words to say about this office... have known them for 15+ years and they have been ever so accommodating and willing to work with me to try the best ways to care for issues without major procedures. Both Dr Max and Dr Tsao are amazing! The techs are super knowledgeable and superb at what they do, as are the rest of the staff. I have never had a bad experience in the 15+ years I have used this office... if not for them I don't know that I would go to the dentist... it's a daunting place to go normally - this office makes it easy to go in and know you won't be forced into unnecessary treatment or put under unnecessary stress... and never any judgment! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!

Jessica P.

Outstanding dental services today. This is the best Dental Office I’ve been to in the past 30 years. Glad I was referred to Dr. Martinez’ Dental Office from a former colleague. I have my entire family using this office now. Everyone I’ve referred our highly satisfied with all the detail services they receive. I recommend this Dental Office in the highest possible terms. You will not be disappointed. The Dentists and professional staff are outstanding and personnel. I appreciate the their follow up reminders via text, emails and phone calls. Outstanding Professionals . I’m pleased to be their client. I will continue to use their services in the future and refer others to them ever chance I get. Thank you Dr. Max Martinez Dental Office. You all are the Best!! Regards, Dr. Ruth Banda-Ralph

Ruth B.

View More

Contact Us. We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.