The Link Between Gum Disease and Blood Pressure

Take cardiovascular diseases, for example, which account for the largest number of deaths in the United States. A study conducted by Current Cardiovascular Reviews asserts that gum disease should be considered a risk to cardiovascular health due to the connection between gum disease and high blood pressure. Curious to learn more? Keep reading to explore the link between gum disease and high blood pressure, and learn the steps you can take to prevent both.

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, occurs when the force of the blood pushing against the blood vessel walls is abnormally high. Often referred to as a “silent killer,” high blood pressure can be challenging to detect. Blood pressure will fluctuate throughout the day, but high blood pressure can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. It can put you at greater risk for other conditions such as:

• Heart attack.
• Heart failure.
• Stroke.
• Vision loss.
• Sexual dysfunction.
• Kidney disease.
• Pregnancy complications.

Diet is a common cause of high blood pressure. A diet high in fat and cholesterol can cause plaques to develop on the artery walls, narrowing the blood vessels and forcing the heart to work harder to push blood through. A high-salt diet is also linked to high blood pressure.

Other common hypertension risk factors include:

• Lack of exercise.
• Excessive alcohol and caffeine intake.
• Smoking or using tobacco.
• Overweight or obesity.
• Diabetes.
• Hormone imbalances.
• Kidney disease.

Viral and bacterial infections, such as strep throat, pneumonia or flu, can temporarily increase your blood pressure. 

An infection triggers an immune response in your body, part of which involves releasing a flurry of inflammatory chemicals called cytokines. These chemicals turn up the heat to kill off the invading pathogens, which is why you often have a fever when you’re sick. However, this increase in body temperature also speeds up your heart rate, which in turn increases your blood pressure. Your blood pressure will return to normal once you’re recovered.

Just like an infection elsewhere in your body, a tooth infection or an abscess can increase your blood pressure. Not only do you have the influence of your immune system fighting off the infection, but tooth infections can be notoriously painful! When you’re in pain, your body releases stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, increasing your heart rate and blood pressure. As with systemic infections, though, blood pressure should return to normal when your infection has cleared.

Gum disease (periodontal disease) and high blood pressure share many common risk factors. Bacterial infections in the mouth can travel through the bloodstream and infect other parts of the body. Bacteria related to gum disease can lead to inflammation of the heart valves and blood vessels, leading to hypertension and other conditions linked to heart disease.

Excellent dental hygiene is a great way to prevent gum disease and high blood pressure. Many routine checkups to a dental professional will include a high blood pressure screening. Other simple measures for preventing hypertension and gum disease include:

• Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day.
• Practicing daily interdental cleaning.
• Visiting a dental professional regularly.
• Eating a healthy diet rich in fiber and protein.
• Avoiding smoking and tobacco.
• Staying physically active.
• Maintaining a healthy weight.
• Limiting alcohol intake.
• Getting plenty of sleep.

A healthy diet, oral care routine, and regular exercise are the best defense for preventing or managing gum disease and high blood pressure. If you think you may be at risk for high blood pressure, schedule an appointment with a medical or dental professional to address it.

Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.