The link between gum disease and heart disease may not be obvious, but chronic inflammation is a hallmark of both conditions and inflammation in your body plays a major role in the build-up of plaque in your arteries, which can lead to a heart attack.
A study published earlier this year concluded that the frequency of teeth brushing can actually have a significant impact on your risk of developing heart disease. They found that those with the worst oral hygiene increased their risk of developing heart disease by 70 percent, compared to those who brush their teeth twice a day.
This finding is yet another potent testimony to the fact that heart disease is a condition that can be prevented, most of the time, by leading a healthy lifestyle -- which includes the simple act of brushing your teeth regularly to prevent periodontal disease.
But just how can periodontal disease trigger heart disease?
It's important to realize that periodontal disease involves both bone and the tissue that is in contact with that bone. From this contact, bacteria and toxic, inflammatory compounds can easily enter your blood stream.
Once in your blood stream, these toxic compounds can harm the lining of your blood vessels, which can lead to both strokes and heart attacks.
So, reducing inflammation is of primary importance for your overall health, and brushing your teeth regularly is one way to ensure you don't carry chronic inflammation in your body. I'll discuss this a bit more in a moment.
Did you know this?
From this contact, bacteria and toxic, inflammatory compounds can easily enter your blood stream.
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