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Need yet another incentive to brush and floss? The leading cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene, such as infrequent or inadequate brushing. New research reveals that a healthy mouth could safeguard your risk of stroke. The study reveals that gum disease along with cavities drive systemic inflammation, which in turn promotes atherosclerosis and hardening of small blood vessels, which are key contributors to elevated stroke risk.
Systemic inflammation is a widespread, low-grade inflammatory response that affects the entire body, not just a specific area. It occurs when the immune system stays in a prolonged “alarm” state, releasing inflammatory molecules into the bloodstream that travel to organs and tissues.
People with both gum disease and cavities face an especially high stroke risk due to heightened oral inflammation. It ranks among the most widespread chronic conditions, striking about half of all adults. It begins as gingivitis, with gums turning red and inflamed from bacterial plaque, and can advance to periodontitis, where gums recede and teeth loosen.
Periodontitis is a far more serious condition that threatens overall health. The bacteria burrow beneath the gum line and enter the bloodstream, where they erode bone and tissue, causing gums to detach from teeth. This creates deeper pockets that trap even more bacteria, ultimately leading to tooth loss.
People that had gum disease and cavities faced an 86% higher risk of clot-related strokes and a 36% greater chance of heart attacks or heart failure. Gum disease alone, without cavities, was associated with a 44% increased stroke risk.
These findings highlight that consistent dental care through daily brushing and flossing, paired with regular visits to your dentist can contribute to a lower risk of stroke. Brushing twice a day, flossing thoroughly after meals, and visiting the dentist every six months are simple yet powerful habits for a radiant smile and healthy brain arteries.
To view the original scientific study click below:
Combined Influence of Dental Caries and Periodontal Disease on Ischemic Stroke Risk
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