Although medical researchers are not completely sure of the connection, several clinical studies have shown that people who experience chronic gum disease are at a higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease. The bacteria that cause gum disease are found in the cardiovascular system, causing inflammation. Similar results have been found in people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, indicating that inflammation in the gums can lead to bacteria traveling throughout the body to cause issues that seem like they should be unrelated.
Seeing your dentist regularly for professional teeth cleaning ensures that the plaque and tartar that can build up in your mouth are removed before they can lead to serious problems. If left untreated, gum disease can require invasive surgery such as gum grafts. By taking good care of your teeth and having regular dental visits, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy and reduce your risk of heart disease as well as other chronic problems that have been traced to inflammation.
