February is Heart Month

The American Academy of Periodontology stresses the importance of good oral health since gum disease may be linked to heart disease and stroke. Thus far, no cause-and-effect relationship has been established, but there are multiple theories to explain the link between heart disease and periodontal disease. One theory suggests that oral bacteria may affect heart health when it enters the blood and attaches to the fatty plaque in the heart's blood vessels. This can cause the formation of blood clots. Another theory suggests the possibility that inflammation could be a contributing link between periodontal disease and heart disease. Gum disease increases plaque buildup, and inflamed gums may also contribute to the development of swollen or inflamed coronary arteries.

What is coronary artery disease?

Coronary artery disease is caused in part by the buildup of fatty proteins on the walls of the coronary arteries. Blood clots cut off blood flow, preventing oxygen and nutrients from getting to the heart. Both blood clots and the buildup of fatty proteins (also called plaque) on the walls of the coronary arteries may lead to a heart attack. Moreover, periodontal disease nearly doubles the likelihood that someone will suffer from coronary artery disease. Periodontal disease can also worsen existing heart conditions, so many patients who suffer from heart disease need to take antibiotics before any dental procedures. This is especially true of patients who are at greatest risk for contracting infective endocarditis (inflammation of the inner layer of the heart). The fact that more than 2,400 people die from heart disease each day makes it a major public health issue. It is also the leading killer of both men and women in the United States today.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that destroys the bone and gum tissues around the teeth, reducing or potentially eradicating the system that supports your teeth. It affects roughly 75 percent of Americans, and is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. People who suffer from periodontal disease may notice that their gums swell and/or bleed when they brush their teeth.

Although there is no definitive proof to support the theory that oral bacteria affects the heart, it is widely acknowledged better oral health contributes to overall better health. When people take good care of their teeth, get thorough exams, and a professional cleaning twice a year, the buildup of plaque on the teeth is lessened. A healthy, well-balanced diet will also contribute to better oral and heart health. There is a lot of truth to the saying "you are what you eat." If you have any questions about you periodontal disease and your overall health, give our Myrtle Beach, South Carolina office a call!

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:20 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:20 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:20 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

  • "This is the best dentist and dental office in the Grand Strand. They take extra care to not only keep you safe and comfortable but do a superb job in the cleaning of teeth and explaining what is happening in the exam. I truly recommend Dr. Maser and staff."
    Sandy D, Little River
  • "The staff is so friendly and knowledgeable. Kortni is very thorough and makes sure she explains everything she is doing. Dr. Maser is great!"
    Lauren B, Conway
  • "Very impressed with Courtney. She did a great job stepping in for Allison. Very comforting to know if Allison needs another day off, I will be in capable hands. You have a great team Dr. M !"
    Karl L, Myrtle Beach
  • "I'm so thankful to have my dental care and all of my family's dental care with Dr. Maser and his staff. I was really nervous about getting dental care and now that I've been blessed with Dr. Maser and his staff I feel good about going. If you are nervous about dental care and you want exceptional care with extra kindness you should definitely make an appointment to be seen here. They are the best."
    Ashley Gibbs, Myrtle Beach