By ignoring the signs of periodontal disease, you are putting yourself at risk for heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, premature delivery, miscarriage, and respiratory issues. Although it is recognized that keeping up with your oral care can help decrease the risk of developing these health problems, there has been little research conducted that shows a direct correlation between periodontal care and improved health for patients already displaying these conditions. 

A study presented at the 2017 annual American Heart Association (AHA) meeting in Anaheim, CA has shown that taking care of your periodontal health can have a positive impact by reducing blood pressure, inhibiting inflammation, and lowering the risk of cardiovascular events. 

The study, conducted on 107 men with mild to severe periodontitis, was conducted by Jun Tao, MD, PhD and his team at the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou, China. Compared to those who received basic care, the men who received more intensive care experienced a noticeable reduction in blood pressure levels. 

Thanks to Dr. Tao and his team, there is solid evidence that periodontal care can reduce the risk of heart issues and promote a healthier heart by lowering blood pressure. While many understand how important taking care of your oral health is, there are still some who don’t recognize the risks that poor oral health can pose to your well-being.

Did you know that the CDC estimates that nearly half of US adults have mild to severe gum disease? It is never too late to seek periodontal diagnosis and care. 

Do not wait to receive this care if you think you may have periodontal disease and have had heart issues. Don’t take an unnecessary risk, contact our dental team today to schedule an appointment to be evaluated.