Scientists have pointed to an increased risk of stroke due to problems with teeth and gums

People suffering from tooth decay and gum disease at the same time are most at risk of ischemic stroke. Researchers claim that better oral care may be a simple but often overlooked way to help reduce the risk of this cardiovascular event. This was reported on October 27 by Science Daily magazine.

An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot or blockage restricts the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the brain. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria destroy tooth enamel, often due to eating sugary or starchy foods, insufficient oral care, or genetic factors. Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a chronic inflammation or infection of the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. Lack of treatment can lead to tooth loss.

"We found that people with tooth decay and gum disease have almost twice the risk of stroke compared to people with good oral health, even after eliminating risk factors for cardiovascular disease. These results suggest that improving oral health may be an important element of stroke prevention," said study author Suwik Sen, MD, Master of Public Health, Master of Public Health from the University of South Carolina at Columbia.

The study involved 5,986 adults, with an average age of 63 years. At the time of the study, none of them had suffered a stroke. Each participant underwent a dental examination to determine gum disease and caries. Depending on the results, they were divided into three groups: healthy oral cavity, gum disease only, and gum disease with caries.

For 20 years, the participants were monitored through telephone interviews and analysis of medical records in order to find out which of the subjects later suffered a stroke. Among 1,640 participants with a healthy oral cavity, 4% had a stroke, while 7% of those suffering from gum disease had such a stroke. At the same time, 10% of the subjects with both gum disease and caries had a stroke.

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After accounting for variables such as age, body mass index, and smoking, the researchers found that people with gum disease and tooth decay had an 86% higher risk of stroke compared to people with a healthy mouth. Those who suffered from gum disease alone had a 44% higher risk.

In addition to studying stroke cases, the researchers found that participants with gum disease and tooth decay had a 36% increased risk of serious cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and fatal heart disease.

Regular visits to the dentist have proven to be important for health. Participants who regularly consulted a specialist were 81% less likely to suffer from gum disease and caries and had a 29% lower chance of oral diseases.

"The study supports the idea that taking care of your teeth and gums is not just about taking care of your smile; it can help protect your brain. People with signs of gum disease or caries should seek treatment not only to preserve their teeth, but also to potentially reduce the risk of stroke," Sen stressed.

Earlier, on September 22, Maxim Labukhin, a doctor and medical director of the MIA.RF clinic network, spoke about products that can preserve dental health. The specialist recommended including solid vegetables and fruits in the diet — carrots, apples, pears, cucumbers and beets. According to him, such products, thanks to their surface, help to clean teeth from plaque and stimulate blood circulation in the gums. In addition, Labukhin called greens, berries, nuts, and dairy products useful.

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