| |
|
|
|
The Oral Heart
Connection |
|
If you have gum disease (also known as periodontal disease)
during normal chewing or teeth brushing, bacteria can enter
the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body. It is
important to understand how this bacteria can affect your
heart and circulatory system. |
|
|
|
|
Bacteria found in infected gum tissue around teeth during
periodontal disease breaks down the epithelial barrier between the
gums and the underlying connective tissue. Once this occurs, a
series of inflammatory reactions take place which allow chemical
mediators of inflammation, antigens and bacteria to enter the blood
stream. In the bloodstream, bacteria and inflammatory mediators
are carried to other parts of the circulatory system where they
contribute to the formation of cardiovascular disease. |
|
|
|
|
Cardiovascular disease begins with the weakening of arterial
walls. As they weaken, inflammatory mediators and fatty deposits
enter forming “atheromas” within the vessel wall. When atheromas
grow, they are covered by a thin fibrous covering. When this
covering ruptures, it leaves a roughened surface where blood
platelets can stick, forming a clot. |
|
|
|
|
If the clot becomes unstable, it may break off and travel down
stream where it may ultimately lodge in smaller vessels. Since no
blood flow can go beyond the clogged vessel, the tissue the blood was
supplying dies. If this scenario occurs in the heart, it is called
a myocardial infarction (commonly referred to as a heart attack). If
it occurs in the brain, it is called a stroke. |
|
|
|
|
When unstable atheromas rupture and cause clots that block arterial
blood supply to the brain, the brain tissue beyond the clot dies
causing a stroke. |
|
|
|
|
Sometimes, bacteria from the mouth enters the bloodstream and travels to the heart
where it attaches to the heart valves or muscle tissue. This
condition
is known as infectious endocarditis. |
|
|
Now let us explore the nature of………… |
|
|
|
