Dental Plaque and Risk of Blood Clots
The plaque that clogs your arteries is not the same as the sticky, colorless film that accumulates on your teeth after a sugary meal or snack. Unfortunately, according to researchers at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and the University of Bristol, dental plaque contains certain bacteria that can trigger the development of arterial plaque, blood clots and deadly growths in heart valves. Visits to our Los Angeles dentist may mean more than shiny, healthy teeth; they may also play a critical role in your heartís health.
The study, which was presented at the Society for General Microbiologyís Spring Conference, revealed that once oral bacteria enter the blood stream, which occurs most frequently through bleeding gums, they begin to act as human proteins, or fibrinogens. Fibrinogens activate blood platelets and initiate clotting, and because the bacteria are well-protected, the immune system has no real way to attack them efficiently or effectively. Antibiotics cannot reach them, either. Blood vessels can become inflamed, deadly growths can develop and blood flow can become blocked, all of which increase the risk of blood clots, heart attack, stroke and other life-threatening complications.
Maintaining strong, healthy gums is currently the best defense against these bacteria gaining access to the bloodstream. Brush your teeth after meals, floss daily and visit our Los Angeles dental cleaning specialist at least twice annually for a professional cleaning. Any bleeding or irritation warrants further examination. Give us a call today to schedule your consultation or to learn more about ways you can improve your dental health.