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Dental check ups do more than just polish your pearly whites. Regular six month check ups and cleanings complement at-home brushing and flossing and provide an opportunity to identify gum disease and tooth decay before it progresses further.  More and more research is also showing that your dental health is tied to your overall health. A new study coming from the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) asked 15,000 patients battling chronic coronary heart disease to answer questions on their dental health. The results of the study discovered that gum disease disorders such as tooth loss and gingivitis could be a possible risk marker for cardiovascular disease. Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris invite their patients to experience excellent clinical care in their comfortable Mansfield office. They would like to share the results of this new study that highlights the importance of dental check ups.

Findings of the Study

  • Data suggests that gum disease is a potential risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Data showed that indicators of gum disease such as tooth loss and gum bleeding were associated with many cardiovascular risk factors. The opposite was true as well: lower rates of tooth loss were associated with lower incidences of cardiovascular risk factors.
  • The researchers adjusted for factors such as age, smoking, diabetes, and education level, but the results from the study still show that patients with tooth loss and gum bleeding possessed a greater likelihood for developing cardiovascular disease. This finding suggests the possibility of using dental health as a marker for cardiovascular risk.
  • Researchers found that demographic, genetic, and socioeconomic differences affect gum disease. The researchers found an especially strong link between socioeconomic status and gum disease. Both smoking and lower levels of education were also strongly associated with gum disease.
  • The authors of the study could not conclude that poor oral health or the presence of gum disease cause a greater risk for heart disease. More research is needed to prove a causal link between poor oral health and the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease.

About Your Mansfield Dentists

Mansfield Dental Associates provide professional care with a warm, caring touch. If you would like to schedule a consultation at our Mansfield office, please call please call 817-473-6227. Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.