I recently read the book Beat the Heart Attack Gene, by Bradley Bale, MD and Amy Doneen, ARNP. This is an interesting read for anyone looking to understand their own health better and what health risks in their own profile might predispose them to cardiovascular disease. Like so many diseases, early identification and intervention makes such a difference in managing the disease and avoiding more serious consequence of disease progression.

Of special interest to me was the passages in their book explaining the threat of oral disease, particularly periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums, connective tissue, and bone supporting the teeth. And recent research suggests that those who experience periodontal disease have double or even triple the risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Almost half of all adult Americans have some form of periodontal disease, and for the population 65 and older, it’s 70%. In other words, when I meet a new patient, the statistical odds are 50/50 they will have this condition. The majority who have periodontal disease are not aware of it because in the early stages the disease is painless.

Today, scientific evidence that healthy gums help prevent heart attacks and strokes is so powerful that The American Journal of Cardiology and the Journal of Periodontology issued a consensus statement recommending that:

  • Doctors and dentists warn patients with moderate severe periodontal disease of their potential cardiovascular danger.

  • Patients with gum disease should get a complete physical exam and blood pressure measurement annually.

  • These patients should also be checked for diabetes, high cholesterol, and a family history of early deaths from cardiovascular disease.

  • People with gum disease and one or more of those CVD risks should be treated with lifestyle changes and if necessary, medication.