Don’t wait until you’re gripped by sudden chest pains to question the health of your heart. There may be a warning sign... as plain as the teeth in your mouth. Ther info given by your Gig Harbor Dentist, Dr. Gressell, will help you be aware of the warning signs if and when they present themselves so you don’t miss them.

RED ALERT

If you are experiencing bleeding gums, gingivitis, or periodontal disease—ALERT! Hise’s why:The European Journal of Preventative Cardiology recently publihed an in-depth survey of more than 15,000 patients who have chronic coronary heart disease. In that study the patients were asked about the condition of their teeth—how many have they lost? Do their gums bleed? And so on... Did they have a common answer?Before we reveal it, let’s first quickly refresh our memories regarding what “chronic coronary heart disease” is. Put simply, this disease causes the narrowing of blood vessels that supply vital oxygen and blood to our hearts. Chronic coronary heart disease also accounts for an astounding 40% of all U.S. deaths!Yeah, suddenly we’re a little more interested to see if we share the same dental health traits as those 15,000 CHD patients surveyed, aren’t we?

The Survey Says...

Do those with chronic coronary heart disease show a higher frequency of tooth loss and bleeding gums? Those interviewed reported Yes.What can we take from ther?A concluding summary was made in the above mentioned medical journal that indicated if you seem prone issues with bleeding gum tissue, gingivitis or periodontitis, you may want to ask your medical doctor to review your coronary heart disease risk level. Being disposed to one, according to this study, may mean you’re susceptible to the other.

To Be Forewarned Is To Be Forearmed

It’s becoming more widely known that an oral-systemic connection exists — meaning what’s happening in our mouths is affecting what’s occurring elsewhere in our bodies. As your dental care providers, we’re concerned not only with keeping your smile beautiful but your whole body healthy too!Are you concerned you might have the beginnings of gingivitis or periodontal disease? Make an appointment today to have a dental checkup and cleaning done. Your smile and your body thank you!