Healthy teeth, healthy heart
New research has made a promising discovery for the continued health of millions of heart attack survivors globally, as looking after their oral health has been found to help their cardiovascular system recover.
The study found that bacteria which causes gum disease can also impair the healing and repair of arteries after a heart attack. The researchers believe that this impaired healing may be due to an enzyme produced by the bacteria that stops the body’s immune cells from repairing the arteries.
By keeping their mouths healthy and free of gum disease, people who have suffered from a heart attack may be able to avoid further cardiovascular problems in the future.
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the UK, contributing to more than 150,000 deaths per year, but many of these deaths could have been prevented with relatively simple lifestyle changes.
Dentists who treat patients who may have suffered from a heart attack in the past can help improve their recovery by suggesting simple oral health regimes and providing support where needed. It is worthwhile for dentists to be proactive, checking patients’ medical records routinely to be able to pick up on such issues and take positive steps to help.
