(Pro Health Dental) — When most people think about their oral health, they probably don’t consider the link between oral health and other medical conditions — such as strokes. However, there is a strong connection between the two. Poor oral health can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, increasing your chances of having a stroke.
So what exactly is the link between oral health and strokes? Let’s take a closer look.
Poor oral hygiene is one of the main risk factors associated with higher risks of strokes. This is because oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation of the blood vessels. This inflammation can then lead to blood clots, which can block the flow of blood to the brain and cause a stroke.
Another way oral health can impact your risk of strokes is by causing gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can damage the tissues and bones that support the teeth. Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of strokes and other severe health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. (…)