Ask a Complete Health Dentist: Is High Blood Pressure Linked to Peridontal Disease?

A complete health dentist says that high blood pressure has been linked to oral health. Commonly known as hypertension, high blood pressure is a common type of cardiovascular problem and it typically does not cause any symptoms. Most people with abnormally high blood pressure levels have no clue that they have the condition.

Exploring the link between gum disease and high blood pressure

The force a person's blood travels with inside their blood vessels is known as their blood pressure. Blood vessels are narrow structures and they can be damaged by excessive pressure. This can lead to complications like a heart attack or stroke.

Those who have been diagnosed with the condition should avoid habits like smoking. They should follow their doctor's exercise and dietary recommendations. People who also have diabetes should limit their sugar consumption and keep their insulin levels under control. Diabetes is a risk factor for high blood pressure.

A complete health dentist says people with good oral health are more likely to benefit from taking medication for their high blood pressure. According to the American Heart Association, people with gum disease were 20% less likely to be able to get their blood levels under control with medication. Such studies indicate that there is a link between gum disease and cardiovascular issues like hypertension.

Complete health dentists sometimes notice issues with a patient's overall health during examinations. Simple things like bleeding gums, mouth sores or bad breath can be a sign of a more serious condition. For example, bad breath that does not go away with improved oral hygiene might be a sign of a respiratory or digestive problem. Such developments can prompt complete health dentists to refer their patients to other health professionals for further treatment.

Preventing high blood pressure

High blood pressure is linked to gum disease, so keeping the mouth clean can help to prevent such issues. According to a complete health dentist, good oral hygiene includes brushing two times daily, flossing each day and using mouthwash to control bacteria in the mouth.

Biannual teeth cleaning can also be helpful since complete health dentists remove plaque and bacteria during the process. Tartar and plaque cause gum disease when they get underneath the gums. Other things that can help to prevent high blood pressure include:

• Quit smoking: Tobacco smoke leads to blood vessels becoming narrower. This forces the heart to pump harder, raising blood pressure
• Maintain a healthy weight: People who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop high blood pressure. Such people are also more likely to have poor eating habits and that can increase their risk of developing gum disease
• Exercises regularly: Living a sedentary lifestyle and not getting enough exercise increases a person's risk of developing hypertension.
• Minimize fatty and salty foods: Salt and fats are risk factors for high blood pressure.

A healthy mouth leads to a healthy body

Call or visit our Coral Gables clinic to learn more about how periodontal disease is linked to high blood pressure.

Request an appointment here: http://www.bushdidsmiles.com or call Bushdid Smiles at (305) 740-1443 for an appointment in our Coral Gables office.

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