The Health Link Between Your Mouth and Your Heart

For years dentists have been saying that there is a big connection between out tooth-and-gum health and out overall health. Now there’s some new research that reinforces this link.

The research, which was conducted by scientists at the Forsyth Institute and Boston University, show that reducing the inflammation associated with periodontitis (gum disease), can prevent vascular inflammation and lower the risk of heart attack.

Specifically, the researchers studied the role played by an oral topical remedy, (with an active ingredient called Resolvin E1), in reducing inflammation.

The scientists claim that this was the first time that researchers anywhere have demonstrated the ability of an oral treatment for gum disease to also reduce inflammation in the artery wall.

Research has long shown a link between a build-up of dental plaque and resulting arterial plaque, which can lead to a greater risk of heart attack. Now, there’s research that suggests that a very simple topical treatment may also have a beneficial effect on heart health.

The bottom line is: be sure to see your dentist on a regular basis.