Gum Attacks Gum Attacks Not only will poor oral hygiene lead to tooth decay and gum disease, it could give you a heart attack. Researchers have determined that bacteria frequently found in tooth plaque and diseased gums could be the trigger for heart attacks. These bacteria appear to promote clumping of blood cells and cause heart function abnormalities, such as more rapid beating. Clumping of blood cells is the first step in the formation of blood clots, which are what cause heart attacks. Other factors, such as diet, cholesterol levels and smoking, influence the risk of heart disease, but it may be proteins in these bacteria that actually set the clotting process in motion.
Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through diseased gums.
Researchers have more work to do to determine exactly how the bacteria they studied work in humans, and how to prevent the bacteria from affecting the heart. Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas say this is another reason oral health is important to overall health. By taking care of your teeth and gums with daily brushing and flossing and regular visits to the dentist for cleaning and checkups, you're not only saving your teeth, but you could be saving your life. Other Topics Health Watch is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.