Connection Between Gum and Heart Disease

Coronary heart disease is a narrowing of small blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the heart. It is usually caused by atherosclerosis, a condition which occurs when fatty material and plaques buildup on the walls of arteries. Its most common symptom is chest pain, however, in some cases no symptoms may be present. Treatment for heart disease can range from taking medication to surgery. Researchers have found that people with gum disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from heart disease. There are several theories that have shown a link between heart disease and periodontal disease. One theory is that oral bacteria effects the heart by entering the bloodstream and attaching to fatty plaques in the coronary arteries which contributes to clot formation. Another theory is that the inflammation caused by periodontal disease increases plaque buildup, which may contribute to swelling of arteries. There are more ongoing studies to further see the connection between gum and heart disease.