02:00 am
Monday 14 March 2022
agencies
Oral health is more important than you might expect, and neglecting it can do more than just cause bad breath and bleeding gums.
In this context, a new study sheds light on the serious health consequences that may result from neglecting oral health, including high blood pressure, according to the British Express website.
And in a resounding surprise, I found that if bad breath, bleeding and swollen gums are part of your life, you may be at risk of developing cardiovascular complications!
development of systemic diseases
Researchers from the Eastman Institute of Dentistry at University College London also did more research on the link between gum disease and the possibility of high blood pressure. They investigated data from 250 healthy adults with severe gum disease and compared them to 250 people with healthy gums.
The results revealed that people with gum disease were twice as likely to have high systolic blood pressure, also known as hypertension, than those with healthy gums.
“This evidence suggests that periodontal bacteria cause damage to the gums and also trigger inflammatory responses that can influence the development of systemic diseases, including high blood pressure,” study author Francesco Diotto, professor of periodontal disease, said in a statement.
The study also concluded that patients with periodontal disease are more likely to have high blood pressure when there is “active gingivitis,” which is bleeding gums. Other symptoms of gum disease include swollen gums, bad breath, painful chewing, and receding gums.
According to the study, the presence of active gingivitis (defined by bleeding gums) was associated with higher systolic blood pressure.
Increase in glucose and bad cholesterol
Participants with periodontitis also showed increased glucose, “bad” cholesterol (LDL), white blood cell (hsCRP) levels, and lower levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL) compared to the control group.
“We focused on investigating the relationship between severe periodontitis and hypertension in healthy adults without a confirmed diagnosis of hypertension,” the researchers revealed. Therefore, reducing the risk of gum disease is more relevant than just having good oral health.
This can be achieved by following the routine of brushing the teeth for two full minutes twice daily, in addition to flossing between the teeth. It is also recommended that you visit your dentist and dental hygienist regularly for cleanings and checkups.
It is noted that high blood pressure is usually asymptomatic, and many may not realize that they are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular complications.
