Inflammation is central component of the onset and progression of atherosclerosis.
Patients with gingivitis or periodontitis are at a higher risk for heart disease caused by an unhealthy mouth, particularly if it remains undiagnosed and unmanaged. The pathogenic bacteria P. Gingivalis and A.Actinomycetemcomitans (Figure 1.), associated with gum disease, reside subgingivally, where they circulate and can enter the bloodstream, attach to the blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Even if you don't have noticeable gum inflammation, inadequate oral hygiene and accumulated plaque put you at risk for gum disease. The bacteria can also migrate into your bloodstream, causing elevated C-reactive protein, a marker for inflammation in the blood vessels. This can increase your risk of coronary heart disease, vascular disease and stroke.
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