Knowing that there is an Association between Periodontitis and Atherosclerosis

Periodontitis and atherosclerosis are different diseases and these are common with the elderly population. These population groups are said to be prone to infections like these two diseases. Studies have shown also that these are closely associated wherein individuals who have periodontal disease are most likely to have atherosclerosis. Therefore, individuals with cardiovascular disease are usually those with gum and teeth issues and seldom to those who have healthy teeth.

Basically, periodontitis is of two types, namely chronic, affecting mostly the age group belonging to the old, and is associated with the body’s physiology; and the other less common type which is aggressive, affecting the young age group and progresses rapidly. Actually, this is described as a chronic inflammation of the tissues that surround the teeth. The agents causing the inflammation are bacteria that grow with less oxygen environment situated below the gingiva.

On the other hand, atherosclerosis is a progressive disease characterized by the thickening of our arteries. Usually, this is the most common cause of coronary artery disease. Studies were made and have proven that periodontitis and atherosclerosis are definitely linked to one another. There are proposed mechanisms where these two diseases interrelate with each other.

One of the well-known mechanisms that shows periodontitis and atherosclerosis are related is that by which bacteria that cause the gum disease can also produce different chemicals. These substances can trigger the formation of blot clots in the vascular system which can lead to atherosclerosis. Because periodontitis is an infection, it also weakens an individual’s immune system thus predisposing him to the more complicated systemic diseases such as atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.

It is important to have knowledge of the association between periodontitis and atherosclerosis so that you will also know what are some possible things to do to prevent the occurrence of the disease or stop the gum disease if you already have it and decide on what periodontal disease treatment to undertake. In addition, the best way to avoid the onset of the disease is to take proper care of your teeth by maintaining good dental hygiene. Aside from that, it is vital to also choose a healthy lifestyle. This includes not smoking too much, drinking alcohol in moderation, consumption of healthy foods, and regular exercising. Not only are you able to prevent cardiovascular disease but you can also acquire healthy teeth and gums which are very essential in having overall health.

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