Gum Disease and Stroke Risk

A recent study that examined individuals from ages 18-49 who have experienced cryptogenic ischemic strokes has revealed a profound connection relating to gum health. Ischemic strokes account for about 87% of all strokes and occur when an artery that supplies blood to the brain is blocked. The participants of this particular study underwent clinical and radiographic oral exams to measure oral bacteria presence in their blood. 

Those individuals with severe gum disease, or periodontitis, had up to twice the risk of experiencing a stroke and also did not present with any other traditional stroke risk factors such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Additionally, those with advanced periodontitis were 6.43 times more likely to experience a severe stroke, indicating that gum disease not only contributes to the risk of experiencing stroke but also its severity. Dental bacteria was found in four out of five cases of cerebral blood clots according to Professor Pirkko Pussinen from the University of Eastern Finland. She stresses that oral health must be maintained, especially for those already at risk of a stroke. 

Dr. Tommi Patila, a heart and transplant surgeon at the New Children’s Hospital in Helsinki, Finland says, “Statistics show that people with healthy mouths live longer. Each missing tooth reduces life expectancy.” Proper brushing techniques, regular flossing, and keeping routine dental visits is important because even asymptomatic oral infections can affect overall health. 

Source: https://www.dentistryiq.com/dentistry/oral-systemic-health/article/55090888/the-correlation-between-gum-disease-and-stroke-risk-exposed-a-wake-up-call