In addition to the deleterious effects of stress on health, including oral health, the American Academy of Periodontology has also periodontal (gum) disease to heart disease. One theory they put forth is that oral bacteria produced by the gum disease can affect the heart when the bacteria enter the bloodstream, attaching to fatty plaques in the coronary arteries (heart blood vessels) and contributing to clot formation.

Coronary artery disease is characterized by a thickening of the walls of the coronary arteries because of the buildup of fatty proteins. Blood clots can obstruct normal blood flow, restricting the amount of nutrients and oxygen required for the heart to function properly. This may lead to heart attacks.

Another possible reason they put forth is that the inflammation caused by periodontal disease increases plaque buildup, which may contribute to swelling of the arteries. Researchers have found that people with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can also worsen existing heart conditions. This may be another important link between stress and heart disease—a cause and effect: stress exacerbates gum disease, which can then lead to heart disease.

Additional studies have also linked gum disease and stroke. Researchers have found that the risk for stroke is 2.8 times greater for individuals with periodontal disease than those without periodontal disease. It is clear that there is a significant inflammatory component linking all of these syndromes and diseases, which is immensely important when we realize that inflammation directly impacts the progression of gum disease, heart disease, and atherosclerosis.

Is flossing a part of your daily dental hygiene?