Health Alert 99
Taking care of your teeth is more than a vanity issue. It could save your life. If you have gum disease you are more likely to have a heart attack.1 Half of all heart attacks are fatal.
Men are at particular risk. According to the Academy of General Dentistry more than half of American men have some form of gum disease. Are you one of them?
In this letter you’ll see how your oral health affects your heart. And, you’ll learn simple tips to keep your gums healthy.
* From Your Mouth Straight to Your Heart *
The problem begins with plaque. It is the first step towards gum disease. Plaque build-up creates a breeding ground for bacteria. The resultant inflammation leads to a breakdown of gum tissue. This breakdown allows bacteria to pass into your bloodstream.
The release of oral bacteria into your bloodstream stimulates an immune response. This inflammatory response causes arterial blockages and blood clots. These can lead to a heart attack.
The Dental Longitudinal Study by the Department of Veterans Affairs followed 1,147 men for 18 years. The men with severe gum disease had a 150% greater risk of heart disease. They also had twice as many fatal heart attacks as the control group2.
* Tips for Healthy Gums *
It is not a coincidence that the antioxidants I recommend for your heart also help your gums.
Vitamin C reduces the inflammation associated with gingivitis. It also repairs the connective tissues of your gums. I use 500 mg twice a day.
Coenzyme Q10 is capable of reversing gum disease and many cases of heart disease simultaneously. For preventing gum disease, I use 60mg once a day. To reverse gum disease, I increase it to 100mg twice a day. I’ve seen it help repair
visibly damaged gum tissue.Folic acid regenerates health gums. A number of studies show that an oral rinse containing folic acid can be very effective in treating gum disease. Some dentists have started carrying these rinses. You may have to locate a holistic minded dentist in your area.
Vitamin E can help you repair damaged gum tissue. 400 IU per day will suffice.
In addition to these antioxidants, practice good oral hygiene. For a clean healthy mouth:
• Brush teeth for three to four minutes twice a day
• Floss once a day
• Get professional cleanings at least twice a year
Remember, taking good care of your teeth and gums will not only give you a great smile, but a healthier heart as well.
Al Sears, MD
1. Genco R., Periodontal disease and risk for myocardial infarction and cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular Reviews and Reports 1998; 19 (3):34-40
2. Arbes SJ Jr., Slade GD, Beck JD. Association Between Extent of Periodontal Attachment Loss and Self-reported History of Heart Attack: An Analysis of NHANES III Data J. Dent. Res. 78[12]:1777-82, 1999