PDS-supported dentists educate patients about the link between oral health and cardiovascular health
IRVINE, CALIF. February 3, 2021 – Every 40 seconds someone in the United States dies from cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide, according to the American Heart Association. Leading DSO Pacific Dental Services (PDS®) joins the healthcare professionals across the country in recognizing American Heart Month, a national campaign committed to bringing greater awareness about heart health. Research indicates that oral infections are a key risk factor for heart disease. In fact, studies show that 84% of people with cardiovascular disease have periodontal disease. Moreover, people with periodontal disease are 25% more likely to develop cardiovascular disease.
“There is an undeniable relationship between conditions in the mouth and cardiovascular disease,” said Jamie Toop, D.D.S., Owner Dentist at Rocksprings Dental Group. “It’s important for patients to understand that periodontal disease, or gum disease, is one of the leading drivers of inflammation in the body. A cause and effect relationship exist where gum disease and the bacteria or inflammation associated may cause heart attacks or stroke. Focusing on your heart health has never been more important, as studies show that people with poor cardiovascular health are also at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19.”
Research shows that about 90 percent of middle-aged people and more than 74 percent of young adults have one or more risk factors for heart disease, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, or being a smoker or overweight. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) launched the #OurHearts movement to encourage coming together in adopting behaviors that reduce risk factors and promote a healthy heart. PDS joins NHLBI in support of working together to meet heart health goals by participating in the 28 Days Toward a Healthy Heart challenge. The challenge offers simple ways to incorporate heart health into every day of the month.
Since its inception in 1994, PDS-supported dentists have been committed to clinical excellence and providing the Perfect Patient Experience®. This includes educating patients about the link between oral health and whole-body health –what PDS and its supported practices call the Mouth-Body Connection®. Research shows that harmful bacteria and inflammation in the mouth can indicate and even cause systemic conditions throughout the body. Maladies of the mouth, including periodontal disease, may be linked with other medical conditions including oral cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and more.