When it comes to Heart Health most of us think of diet, exercise and life style changes. Gum Disease (periodontitis) is associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease. Poor oral hygiene may affect overall health including heart health. A new study from Finland found in a study of 500 people needing root canal, they were 3 times more likely to have heart disease. Poor dental health increases the risk of bacterial infections in the blood stream, which can affect the heart valves. Toot loss patterns are connected to coronary artery disease.
The connection between poor oral health and overall health may not be limited to cardiovascular disease. Studies have linked periodontal disease and rheumatoid arthritis. That's reasons enough to do what you can to make oral health a priority.
