High blood pressure claims tens of millions of lives each year. While many people focus on controlling risk factors like diet, exercise, and stress levels, there is another important risk factor that many people are unaware of — gum disease. Let’s talk about the link between gum disease and hypertension. What you learn may just motivate you to give serious thought to how you care for your smile.
The Correlation Between Gum Disease and High Blood Pressure
Several studies have found a strong correlation between gum disease and high blood pressure. For example, a study published in 2021 found that individuals with gum disease were twice as likely to have high systolic blood pressure than those with healthy gums. The study also suggested that up to 50% of adults might have undetected high blood pressure due to gum disease. Separate research, published in 2020, found that people with moderate gum disease were 22% more likely to have hypertension, while those with severe gum disease nearly 50% more likely.
Is It a Causative Relationship?
The abovementioned research found a significant association between gum disease and high blood pressure. However, they did not firmly establish a causative relationship. Nevertheless, there is good reason to believe that gum disease can directly contribute to high blood pressure.
Gum disease is essentially an infection that causes the gums to become inflamed. However, the inflammation is not limited to just the mouth. Gum disease can spark an immune response that increases inflammation throughout the body. That inflammation, in turn, can contribute to high blood pressure.
What You Can Do
The relationship between gum disease and high blood pressure is concerning, but there is no need to become overly worried. There are some simple things you can do to care for your smile and thereby possibly reduce your risk of hypertension:
- Visit your dentist for regular preventive care. If they detect early signs of gum disease, you can receive treatment before the problem worsens and begins to pose a serious threat to your overall health.
- Stick to an excellent oral hygiene routine. Twice-daily brushing and once-daily flossing can do much to fight bacterial buildup along the gumline.
- Do not smoke. Smoking cigarettes is a significant cause of severe gum disease.
- Know the warning signs of gum disease. Bleeding gums, swollen gums, red gums, and persistent bad breath are a few indications that mean you should visit your dentist as soon as possible.
Gum disease is more than an oral health problem — left untreated, it could endanger your overall wellness and perhaps even your life! Fortunately, it is highly treatable with help from a qualified dentist.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Bryan Griffith is an experienced dentist who has built a reputation for providing comfortable care. Along with his associate, Dr. Alex Hartgrove, he offers both preventive services and multiple forms of gum disease treatment. If you are concerned about your gum health, or you would simply like to learn more about our practice, reach out to our friendly team at 606-874-9311.