Khaberni - A new study has shown that having both gum disease and tooth decay is associated with an increased risk of stroke, and poor oral health is linked to an increased risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers from the University of South Carolina in the United States conducted a study published in the journal Neuroscience on October 22, which was reported by the website Eureka Alert.
The study indicates that those suffering from tooth decay and gum disease face a greater risk of ischemic stroke.
Ischemic strokes are the most common types of strokes and occur when a clot or blockage restricts blood flow to the brain, depriving it of oxygen and nutrients.
Decay consists of holes in the dental enamel, caused by consuming sugary or starchy foods. Gum diseases typically result from poor oral hygiene and are inflammation or infection affecting the gums and jawbone and can lead to tooth loss.
The researchers analyzed data from about 6,000 adults with an average age of 63 years, who had no history of stroke at the start of the study.
Two Decades of Follow-up
All participants underwent dental examinations to assess whether they had gum disease, decay, or both. The participants were then placed into 3 groups: those with good oral health, those with gum disease only, or those with both gum disease and decay.
The researchers followed their cases for two decades, using phone visits and medical records to determine who suffered a stroke.
Of the 1640 people with good oral health, 4% suffered a stroke. Among the 3151 people suffering from gum disease only, 7% suffered a stroke. And among the 1195 people with both gum disease and tooth decay, 10% suffered a stroke.
After considering factors such as age, body mass index, and smoking, the researchers found that compared to those with good oral health, those with both gum disease and tooth decay had an 86% higher risk of stroke. Those with gum disease alone had a 44% increased risk.
The study also looked more broadly and found that those with both gum disease and tooth decay had a 36% higher risk of a major cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack or fatal heart disease or stroke.
