Your mouth and your brain may seem unrelated, but they are closely connected.
Research shows that gum disease and poor oral health are linked with an increased risk of stroke.
Looking after your teeth and gums is not just about your smile – it is part of protecting your overall health.
How oral health may affect stroke risk
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It happens when plaque builds up along the gumline and causes inflammation.
If gum disease is not treated:
Harmful bacteria can enter the bloodstream.
This can contribute to inflammation in blood vessels around the body.
Inflammation and infection may play a role in the narrowing or damage of blood vessels.
These changes are linked with conditions that increase stroke risk, such as:
Atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries).
High blood pressure.
Heart and blood vessel disease.
This means people with severe gum disease may have a higher risk of stroke compared to those … Source by Oral Health Foundation Read More
