Periodontal disease (i.e., severe gum inflammation) allows oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation and accelerating plaque buildup in arteries—key factors in atherosclerosis and heart disease .A 25% increase in heart‑disease risk has been observed among individuals with severe gum disease, and those with gum disease are reportedly 28% more likely to experience a heart attack.
In Australia, local studies echo international findings. Research conducted across metropolitan Sydney revealed most cardiac patients had poor oral health, yet awareness of its link to heart conditions was low. Few had received oral health advice during cardiac care visits, revealing a clear opportunity for interdisciplinary collaboration .
Experts now call for dental care to become a routine part of heart‑health programs. Cardiac nurses and clinicians could play a pivotal role in educating and referring patients to dental services—a strategy well‑received by sufferers.
In Ellenbrook, this means local dentists and medical practitioners can collaborate by:
At the household and community level, simple habits—brushing twice daily, flossing, regular cleanings, and a balanced diet—can significantly support both oral and heart health. Local Ellenbrook dental and medical professionals are taking this connection seriously. Dentists are increasingly working in collaboration with general practitioners and cardiologists to promote integrated care, especially for older adults and individuals with existing heart conditions. Regular dental check-ups, deep cleaning, and good daily oral hygiene are essential not just for preserving your teeth but also for protecting your heart.
For Ellenbrook residents, this means adopting a proactive approach to oral health can offer added protection for overall well-being. Brushing twice daily, flossing, avoiding tobacco, and maintaining a balanced diet are simple yet powerful steps. It’s also important to manage conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, which can worsen both oral and heart health.
By recognizing the mouth as a gateway to the body’s systemic health, Dentist Ellenbrook can pioneer community‑based approaches that link dental care with cardiovascular prevention—benefiting seniors and the broader population alike.