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More and more research shows taking care of your gums can help your heart!!
Cardiovascular disease is one of this country’s largest health problems. It affects one in five Australians and is responsible for at least one in three deaths. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition leading to destruction of gum and bone tissue that supports the teeth.

Signs of periodontitis are, bleeding gums, loose teeth and bad breath/ taste. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. A concensus paper on the relationship between heart disease and gum disease was published in July 2009 by the American Journal of Cardiologists and the Journal of Periodontology. A proposed link is through the mechanism of inflammation. While inflammation can initially be protective, untreated chronic inflammation can have a damaging effect. Periodontal disease inreases the amount of inflammation in the body and this can be a risk factor for heart disease. It has been shown that total serum cholesterol and plasma levels of CRP( an inflammatory marker) and fibrinogen (a clotting factor) were elevated in people with periodontitis. Researchers at the University of Minessota have shown that heart damaging bacteria are present in periodontal tissue. Streptococcus sanguis, a common tooth plaque bacteria has been shown to increase platelet aggregation in humans. When this bacteria was injected into rabbits an increase in blood pressure, heart rate and breathing rate was observed within 3 minutes. These changes are observed just before a heart attack occurs.
So, paying attention to your gums may not only help to keep your teeth for longer it may help reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease.!! As the mouth can mirror the general health of the body keeping our bodies healthy can help gums There are many ways to keep our gums healthy. Below, BCD naturopath and hygienist give us their insight.

Herzberg, M.C. and M.W. Meyer. 1996. Effects of oral flora on platelets: possible consequences in cardiovascular disease. J. Periodontol 67(10 suppl): 1138-42
Wu t, trevisan M, Genco RJ, Falkner KL, Dorn JP, Sempos CT. Examination of the relation between periodontal health status and cardiovascular risk factors. Serum total and high density lipoprpotein cholesterol, C-reactive protein, and plasma fibrinogen. Am J Epidemiol 2000; 151: 273-282
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Long term management of periodontal disease is dependent on effective mechanical disruption of dental plaque (bacteria) on a regular basis. This can be acieved through an effective home routine and regular professional scaling (removal of plaque build up) if necessary.
It is advisable to use a small soft bristle toothbrush that conforms and bends to the surface of your teeth. Brushing should be performed at least twice a day for 2-5 minutes. The brush should be angled at 45 degrees to the gum line and moved in small circular motion. Flossing cleans the areas between that cannot be reached by the toothbrush and should be done at least once daily. It may be easier to floss in front of a mirror. If gums bleed while flossing don’t stop! Floss more!! Bleeding is a sign of periodontal disease and that extra attention is needed. It is important to have your gums checked regularly. In doing so, any problems can be picked up early. Often periodontal disease may be progressing silently without any symptoms whatsoever!!
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One cannot consider periodontal health without taking into account the health of the whole body as they are inextricably linked.
In fact, the state of the gums can be a valuable early warning marker for the presence of potential systemic issues. Mineral and vitamin deficiencies can be particularly important. For example, vitamin C deficiency can result in swollen, painful and bleeding gums, commonly known as scurvy. Stress, acid alkaline imbalance and a burdened immune deficiency can also affect the gums either directly or through depletion of minerals. Prevention through nutrition. Finding out your metabolic type and consuming foods that maintain the balance of one’s unique chemistry will support good health generally, improve circulation/blood vessel integrity and therefore encourage healthy gums.
On the way to establishing a suitable dietary and oral hygiene protocol there are some wonderful aids to improving periodontal health. Used as a mouthwash to decrease bacterial load and inflammation in the mouth, strong herbal teas or extracts of herbs such as calendula, echinacea, golden seal, chamomile, olive leaf are invaluable. Prickly ash and cayenne improve circulation and blood vessel strength. “Perioclear”, available at the clinic, is an exceptional mouthwash based on many of these herbs. Supplementally, a good dose of vitamin C with bioflavenoids (at least 2gm/day), soluble CoQ10 (100mg twice daily dissolved orally) and folic acid (500-1000 mcg/day) will quickly settled inflamed gums.
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“Perioclear” is a powerful non-alcohol mouthwash that freshens the breath and encourages periodontal health. It is organically formulated from essential oils and herbs known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. It tastes great and contains no alcohol, fluoride or sodium lauryl sulphate. Available for purchase at the clinic.
Ask for a taster next time you visit us!!
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So how can I look after my gums? We are often asked.
“ The periodontal Solution- Healthy Gums Naturally” wriiten by Dr. James Harrisson is an excellent read full of information on how to achieve and maintain healthy gums.. Dr. Harrison has been a dedicated biological dentist for over 20 years. In this book he presents science based, high quality dentistry with holistic principles.
Available to purchase at the clinic.
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Aushi spoke at the annual Australasian Integrative Medical association conference in St. Kilda Melbourne in October. She presented a workshop on Dental Toxicology to a wonderful group of integrative practitioners. The workshop was very well received and it was rewarding to share current research with naturopaths, doctors, surgeons etc. Some feedback received “I have a much better understanding about disease, toxicity and effects on the body”
The holiday season is fast approaching and we would like to remind all of our patients that the surgery will be closing midday 24 December. We will reopen on 4 January.
 
The BCD team would like to wish you all a wonderful New Year. May it be a year full of health, happiness and peace.