Dental care and cardiovascular problems

Our mouth teems with bacteria — most of them absolutely harmless. Normally, good oral health care and body's natural defenses, can keep these bacteria restrained. However, it is possible for harmful bacteria to grow out of control and cause infections such as, gum diseases and tooth decay. In addition, certain medications, or dental care treatments can also disrupt the normal balance of these bacteria in the mouth that makes it easier for them to enter the bloodstream.

Here is a look at some heart related issues and how they affect your dental routine.

Dental care if someone has undergone a heart attack

Speak with your cardiologist about getting any oral treatments. Make sure your dentist knows that you are taking any blood-thinners. Such medicines may lead to excessive bleeding at the time of oral surgery treatments. Speak to your dentist in Brampton if nitroglycerin and oxygen are available if any medical emergency arises during an appointment.

Hypertension

A lot of high blood pressure drugs may lead to a dry mouth or play with your taste buds. This is specifically with calcium channel blockers, that can swell up the gum tissues, leading to chewing problems. In case you do have any gum overgrowth, the dental expert will give you thorough instructions related to oral hygiene and may request you to make frequent visits for dental cleanings. In certain cases, gum surgery for getting rid of excess gum tissue may be required.

Stroke

For someone who has suffered a stroke, ask your dental expert to take anticoagulants. Such medications may lead to excessive bleeding at the time of an oral surgery.

In case the stroke has reduced your capability to generate good quantity of saliva, the dental expert may suggest you use artificial saliva. In case the stroke has distressed your tongue, face, or dominant arm and hand, your dentist will also advice the use of fluoride gels, altered flossing or brushing techniques, and the like.

Some research under general dentistry suggests that heart disease, stroke, clogged arteries may be linked to oral bacteria, possibly due to inflammation from periodontitis — a serious gum disease. Oral bacteria can also cause blood clots and harm blood vessels by releasing toxins which resemble proteins found in the bloodstreams or artery walls. The response of the immune system to these toxins can make our blood clot easily and harm vessel walls. It is also possible that swelling in the mouth instigates inflammation all through the body, leading to a number of health issues.