Can Toothache Cause Heartbreak?

Clark, Natasha; Skinner, Zoe; Rutland, Catrin Sian

doi:10.3389/frym.2020.00087

Can Toothache Cause Heartbreak?

Clark, Natasha; Skinner, Zoe; Rutland, Catrin Sian

Authors

Natasha Clark

Zoe Skinner

CATRIN RUTLAND CATRIN.RUTLAND@NOTTINGHAM.AC.UK
Associate Professor

Abstract

Poor mouth care and heart disease are two major health concerns worldwide. Both conditions occur in humans and in many mammals, including our pets. “Periodontal” is the word used to refer to structures surrounding the teeth, including the gums and bone. Scientists have seen a connection between poor periodontal health and the increased risk of developing heart disease. It is thought that the bacteria found in dental plaque enters the bloodstream once the gums become inflamed. These bacteria travel through blood vessels, helping blockages called atherosclerotic lesions to form, which narrow the passageways of blood to the heart. In severe cases, lesions can dislodge from the arteries and completely block blood flow to the heart, leading to heart disease and heart failure. Scientific studies have shown that poor periodontal health significantly increases the risk of developing heart disease. Interestingly, it seems our canine companions are suffering the same effects. Brushing teeth could save lives!

Citation

Clark, N., Skinner, Z., & Rutland, C. S. (2020). Can Toothache Cause Heartbreak?. Frontiers for Young Minds, 8, https://doi.org/10.3389/frym.2020.00087

Journal Article Type	Article
Acceptance Date	May 29, 2020
Online Publication Date	Jul 8, 2020
Publication Date	Jul 8, 2020
Deposit Date	Jul 9, 2020
Publicly Available Date	Jul 9, 2020
Journal	Frontiers for Young Minds
Print ISSN	2296-6846
Publisher	Frontiers Media
Peer Reviewed	Peer Reviewed
Volume	8
Article Number	87
DOI	https://doi.org/10.3389/frym.2020.00087
Public URL	https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/4757665
Publisher URL	https://kids.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/frym.2020.00087