Silent tooth infections — infections that have no signs or symptoms — could predispose people for heart disease, say scientists.
Hidden Tooth Infections are Asymptomatic
According to a study at the University of Helsinki, a hidden infection in the root of a tooth increases a person’s chances of developing coronary artery disease. These type of silent tooth infections are common, effecting as many as one in four people. In most cases, infections aren’t detected unless they show up on an X-Ray.
“Acute coronary syndrome is 2.7 times more common among patients with untreated teeth in need of root canal treatment than among patients without this issue,” says researcher John Liljestrand.
Oral Infections Impact Other Parts of the Body
The correlation between oral infections and chronic diseases is not new. Gum disease is also considered a risk factor for heart disease as well as diabetes.
Cardiovascular diseases cause more than 30% of deaths worldwide. They can be prevented by a healthy diet, weight control, exercise and not smoking. For optimal heart health, increasing evidence, such as this study, reinforce the need of proper oral care. See a dentist regularly – at least twice a year – to prevent or treat oral infections.
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