Studies have shown that people with severe periodontal disease, an inflammation of the gums that affects an estimated 200 million Americans, are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than those without gum infection.
A study released in February 2005 shows that older adults who have higher proportions of four periodontal-disease-causing bacteria in their mouths also tend to have thicker carotid arteries, a strong predictor of stroke and heart attack. The study was published in the journal Circulation, and is supported by four agencies of the National Institutes of Health.
The report is the first to draw a direct connection between cardiovascular disease and bacteria involved in periodontal disease.
Research has also shown that other predictors of heart disease are inflammation of the gums around the teeth due to improper hygiene, cavities and missing teeth.
