Dental professionals continually attempt to educate the public on the benefits of proper oral hygiene. Regular brushing and dental check-ups are recommended for people of all ages to maintain a healthy mouth. However, many have refused to listen to even the most simple, valuable advice and may be putting themselves in danger. Research over the years have shown that there are direct links between oral health and strokes. Take a look at some of the compelling evidence we found that may make you take your dental habits a bit more seriously. 

First of all – What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an infection of the structures that surround the teeth. This includes the gums, bone that houses tooth sockets, and the gum ligament that connects the tooth to the bone. The disease can be mild, moderate, or severe and can get worse over time. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of the disease and affects only the gums. If left untreated, mild gum disease can and will, morph into a more serious and damaging form of the disease, which all of the tissues become involved.

Prevalence of Gum Disease:

Gum disease affects approximately half of all U.S. citizens. This is an astounding number, considering dental care today is easily accessible. According to experts, nearly one-third of people over the age of 30 suffer from moderate gum disease. Mild and severe gum disease is found in 8.7% and 8.5% of the population, respectively. Most of the time, the high number of gum cases is due to a lack of proper oral hygiene. Additional factors such as smoking, diabetes, poor diet, cancer and certain medications can contribute to gum disease as well.

Increased Risk of Stroke:

Gum diseases may lead to an increase in plaque build-up in the arteries, which can lead to stroke in some patients. In addition, it is believed that bacteria can invade the bloodstream when chewing food. This can interfere with the body's ability to create insulin. It can also lead to diseases such as hyperglycemia, cholesterol abnormalities and high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke. Studies suggest that individuals with gum disease are up to 3 times more prone to stroke than those that are free of the disease.

Prevention of Gum Disease:

Fortunately, risk of stroke due to gum disease can be reduced by following good oral hygiene practices. For most, that means regular brushing and flossing (at least twice daily). This will remove plaque and keeps food particles from building up between teeth. It is also important for individuals to receive proper dental care on a regular basis. In addition, stopping smoking and limiting intake of sugars are highly recommended.

It’s really very simple to minimize your risk of strokes through dental care. Follow the basics: brush often, floss daily and visit your dentists for your routine cleanings. It may seem like a hassle or nuisance at the moment, but a few extra strokes of your toothbrush may save you a stroke no one wants to experience!