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.

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 Concern:

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.

• Oral bacteria affect the heart – Research has shown bacteria that causes periodontal disease can 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 patient in the form of heart attack.
• Inflammation – Periodontal disease causes severe inflammation in the gum tissue which elevates the white blood cell count as well as 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.

Since periodontal disease is a risk factor for both heart attack and stroke, it is extremely important to seek immediate treatment.  Initially, Dr. Suway and Dr. Toscano will conduct a thorough examination 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.

If you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease and its relation to heart disease and stroke, please feel free to call the office.

Jenkintown Periodontics & Dental Implants, LLC
Dr. Neal B. Suway, Dr. Jeremy Toscano, and Dr. Natalie Amoa
Dental Implants, Cosmetic and Laser Periodontics
261 Old York Road Suite 319
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Phone: (215) 887-6060

Convenient to Philadelphia, Abington, Willow Grove, Elkins Park, Cheltenham, Horsham, Warminster, and Hatboro