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Diseased Gums Linked⁤ to Substantially Higher Stroke⁣ Risk, New Study Finds

BUENOS AIRES – ⁤A new 20-year study has revealed a strong ‌connection between poor oral health – specifically periodontal disease and cavities – and an increased risk⁣ of stroke. Researchers found individuals with both conditions faced an 86% higher risk of stroke compared to those with healthy mouths. The findings, published recently, underscore the ‍importance ‍of dental care not just for⁣ oral health, but ​for ‍overall⁢ cardiovascular and brain wellbeing.

The study, led​ by souvik Sen from⁣ the University of ⁣South ‍Carolina, followed 1,640 participants divided ⁣into three groups based on their oral​ health: those with healthy gums, those with periodontal disease, and⁣ those with periodontal disease and cavities. ⁤Over the two-decade period, 4% of those with healthy mouths experienced a ⁣stroke. This ⁢number rose to​ 7% in ⁤the periodontal​ disease group, and a concerning 10% among those with both gum disease and cavities.

Even after accounting for factors like age, body mass index, and smoking,⁣ the research team persistent those ⁤with both oral ⁢conditions had an 86% increased stroke risk,⁣ while those‌ with periodontal disease alone⁤ had a 44% increased risk.

“We found that people with cavities and periodontal ‌disease had almost twice the risk of stroke compared ​to people with good oral health, even after controlling for cardiovascular risk factors,” Sen stated. ‌”These findings suggest that improving oral⁤ health may ⁤be an important component of stroke prevention measures.”

The ⁤study also‌ highlighted the preventative ‌power of regular dental visits. Participants‌ who⁣ routinely saw a dentist were 81% less⁤ likely to develop both gum disease and cavities, and ⁤29% ‍less likely to suffer from periodontal⁢ disease alone. ⁣Moreover, individuals with these oral conditions demonstrated a⁤ 36% increased risk of serious⁣ cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and ⁣fatal heart disease.

“This study reinforces the idea that take care of teeth and gums are​ not just about the smile; also could help protect the brain,” Sen added. “People with symptoms of periodontal ‌disease ​or ‍cavities should seek treatment not ⁤only to preserve their teeth, but also ‌to reduce​ the risk⁤ of suffering a stroke.”

While acknowledging the study only assessed oral⁢ health at one point in time ⁤and potential unmeasured influencing factors, the authors​ emphasize the data reinforces the critical role of dental prevention in maintaining cardiovascular⁤ and⁢ brain health.