Dental decay, commonly known as cavities, is easily controllable when caught early. Routine fillings help prevent small cavities from becoming larger ones that would otherwise eventually risk the need for root canals or extractions. However, studies show that dental decay is tied to heart attacks and stroke.
What The Science Shows
There is a specific bacteria called S. Mutans that causes and exacerbates cavities. This bacteria has been found in heart valves and plaques found in coronary arteries; some researchers feel S. mutans therefore may play a potential role in the development of atherosclerosis.
There is a large, prospective, ongoing, long-term epidemiological study called Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC): one aspect of this study found regular dental care could reduce the risk of stroke by 23%. Interestingly, the same study found the link between cavities and stroke to be higher in African Americans than in Caucasians. It also found the number of surfaces of a tooth affected by decay caused an increase risk of stroke and death.
The study reports regular dental care was shown to reduce the risk of developing cavities by fivefold. Regular dental care also helps to keep periodontal disease (commonly known as gum disease) at bay. Periodontal disease is more commonly directly associated with cardiovascular events such as heart attacks due to chronic, low-grade systemic inflammation than decay. However, the link of S. mutans within the plaques is what is causing interest.
Keeping Yourself Healthy
So what can you do to keep yourself and your loved ones out of trouble? Regular home dental care such as brushing and flossing is the most obvious. Diets low in sugar are also important (not just for your teeth, but also for your body’s sugar balances). Routine professional dental visits are paramount, too: dental examinations, treatment of cavities, and cleanings to control periodontal disease are effective.
About the Author
Dr. Ira Goldberg is a general dentist & implant expert with 29 years of experience. He is located in the Roxbury Mall in Succasunna, NJ and provides general dentistry for the entire family, including: cleanings, check-ups, whitening, veneers, crowns, root canals, dentures, periodontal (gum) services, dental implants, and much more. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Implantology/Implant Dentistry, a Scholar of the Dawson Center for Comprehensive Dentistry and is recognized as an expert in dental implants. You can find additional information on his website: www.morriscountydentist.com. The office can be reached at: (973) 328-1225 or via email: frontdesk.mcda@gmail.com