Dirty teeth — a sick heart?
According to Denis Moiseev, a candidate of medical sciences and associate professor at the Department of Therapeutic Dentistry at Pirogov University, microbial biofilm on teeth begins to form just a few hours after brushing. And we are not just talking about "dirty teeth."
— Dental plaque is a complex bacterial ecosystem. The byproducts of bacterial activity can enter the systemic bloodstream and trigger inflammatory processes far beyond the oral cavity, the doctor explains.
Cardiovascular diseases
Chronic gum inflammation is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Some bacteria associated with periodontitis can damage the vascular wall and participate in inflammatory processes. According to several studies, severe gum diseases are associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
Type 2 diabetes
There is a bidirectional relationship here. Diabetes worsens the condition of the gums, and chronic inflammation in the oral cavity, in turn, can increase insulin resistance. Therefore, the condition of teeth and gums is especially important for people with prediabetes and diabetes.
Pneumonia in the elderly
This is especially relevant for elderly and bedridden patients. The oral cavity can become a reservoir for bacteria that then enter the respiratory tract. This is why good oral hygiene is considered an important part of pneumonia prevention in the elderly.
Pregnancy complications
Chronic inflammation in the oral cavity can also affect the course of pregnancy. Some studies show a link between severe periodontitis and an increased risk of complications, including premature birth. Therefore, during pregnancy, dentists particularly recommend closely monitoring the condition of the gums.
Joint diseases
Researchers are also studying the connection between chronic gum inflammation and autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis. Although the mechanisms are still being studied, the role of chronic inflammation here is considered significant.
What to do?
The good news is that basic prevention is very simple. Dentists recommend:
brush your teeth twice a day;
use dental floss or an irrigator;
not ignore gum bleeding;
undergo professional hygiene every 6 months.
The main conclusion is simple: taking care of your teeth is not just about a beautiful smile. It is an important part of caring for the health of the entire body.
Другие Новости Кирова (НЗК)
Dirty teeth — a sick heart?
Many perceive dental plaque as a common aesthetic problem or at most as a cause of cavities. But dentists warn: the consequences can be much more serious.
