The bacteria in our mouths may hold the key to many facets of our health. Researchers have found intriguing clues about pancreatic and esophageal cancer risk in mouth bacteria, and some studies have linked poor oral hygiene with respiratory problems.
Mounting evidence is also strengthening the link between oral health and cardiovascular health. Some studies have found oral bacteria in the blood clots of people receiving emergency treatment for stroke, and experts have linked severe gum disease with a significantly higher risk of hypertension.
Conversely, destroying friendly oral bacteria that help maintain a healthy and balanced oral microbiome could disrupt blood pressure levels and also lead to hypertension. Maintaining good oral health, therefore, seems to be key to cardiovascular health.
A recent study found that poor oral hygiene can provoke transient bacteremia and systemic inflammation, a mediator of atrial fibrillation and heart failure.”
Studying A-fib, heart failure, and oral hygiene
A-fib is a condition affecting at least 2.7 million people in the United States. One study found that in people with A-fib, the heart cannot efficiently pump blood to the rest of the body because it does not beat regularly. The heart also does not pump blood as it should in people with heart failure. This inefficiency results in fatigue and, sometimes, breathing difficulties, as insufficient oxygen reaches the other organs in the body.
Brushing lowers heart failure risk by 12%
Research shows that brushing your teeth three times or more a day was linked with a 10% lower chance of developing A-fib and a 12% lower risk of heart failure. Improved oral hygiene care was associated with decreased risk of atrial fibrillation and heart failure. Healthier oral hygiene by frequent toothbrushing and professional dental cleanings may reduce risk of atrial fibrillation and heart failure.
