Tooth decay is a common oral health problem that occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that attack the enamel and dentin of the teeth. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to infection, pain, and tooth loss. But can problems in your mouth like tooth decay affect your overall health, specifically your heart? Here is an overview of the potential links between dental health and heart disease.
The Association Between Oral Health and Heart Disease
While they may seem unrelated, there is some evidence that poor oral health and dental diseases like tooth decay may be associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular diseases. Some research has found links between periodontal (gum) disease and tooth loss and conditions like coronary artery disease, stroke, and heart attacks.
One study published in the Journal of Periodontology looked at over 15,000 participants aged 44-88 years old. It found that those with 10 or fewer natural teeth at the start of the study had a 12% increased risk of developing coronary heart disease compared to those with more than 25 natural teeth. Other research has found similar associations.
The reasons for this potential association are still being investigated, but some theories include:
- Oral bacteria entering the bloodstream – Bacteria from gum disease and tooth decay may gain access to the bloodstream, potentially leading to inflammation and blood vessel (endothelial) dysfunction. This could promote atherosclerosis, or plaque buildup in the arteries.
- Increased inflammation – Periodontal disease is associated with elevated inflammation in the body, which can exacerbate heart disease.
- Shared risk factors – Things like smoking and diabetes are risk factors for both cardiovascular disease and periodontal disease.
Inflammation as a Possible Link
One of the leading theories behind the association between poor oral health and heart disease is related to inflammation. Ongoing inflammation appears to play a central role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
Gum disease and dental decay cause persistent low-grade inflammation in the body. As the sites of infection and inflammation in the mouth increase with more severe periodontal disease, researchers believe this may lead to greater systemic inflammation that contributes to cardiovascular risks.
Studies have found that people with periodontal disease have higher levels of inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) in their blood compared to those without gum disease. Elevated CRP levels are linked to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
Can Treating Tooth Decay Help Lower Cardiovascular Risks?
Some research indicates that having dental treatment to deal with tooth decay and restore oral health may help lower cardiovascular risks.
One study published in JAMA followed a group of patients with periodontal disease who received intensive dental cleaning and treatment. Over the following months, they had significant reductions in their CRP and other inflammatory markers compared to levels prior to treatment.
Other studies have also found that having dental extractions for severely decayed teeth may lower CRP levels and improve endothelial function in patients with heart disease or diabetes.
However, the impact of dental treatment on inflammation and cardiovascular outcomes is still not fully clear. Larger clinical studies in this area are still needed.
Can Tooth Decay Directly Cause Heart Attacks?
While poor oral hygiene and dental diseases like tooth decay may potentially increase the risk of developing heart disease and cardiovascular problems like heart attacks, there is no evidence that tooth decay can directly cause heart attacks.
Having tooth decay does not mean that you will necessarily have a heart attack. However, if tooth decay is left untreated, it can lead to serious oral infections, inflammation, and tooth loss. Maintaining good oral hygiene and getting dental cavities treated may be an important part of protecting both your oral and overall health.
Steps to Protect Your Oral and Heart Health
Here are some ways you can protect both your dental health and cardiovascular health:
- Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily
- See your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams to detect problems early
- Don’t smoke cigarettes, which is a major risk factor for both gum disease and heart disease
- Eat a diet low in sugar to help prevent tooth decay
- Manage health conditions like diabetes that increase risks of dental and heart disease
- Get dental cavities or other tooth problems treated promptly to reduce infection and inflammation
The Bottom Line
While more research is still needed, there appears to be an association between poor oral health, including untreated tooth decay, and an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Ongoing inflammation from gum disease and dental infections may potentially contribute to atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.
Treating tooth decay and gum disease may help control inflammation and lower cardiovascular risks. However, tooth decay itself does not directly cause heart attacks. Maintaining good oral hygiene through brushing, flossing, a healthy diet, and regular dental visits is important for protecting both your dental health and overall well-being.