Study Shows an Increased Risk Gum Disease in Patients with Mental Illnesses and Heart Conditions

Written by Sarah Cownley
Published on

A new study has found that patients developing illnesses such as mental health and heart conditions have a higher rate of GP-inputted medical history of periodontal gum disease. This research helps build evidence of a relationship between a healthy mouth and the reduced risk of health complications.

For the study, researchers analyzed the records of 64,379 patients who had a GP-inputted recorded history of periodontal disease, including periodontitis (the condition that occurs if gum disease is left untreated and can lead to tooth loss) and gingivitis.

Of the participants, 60,995 had gingivitis, and 3,384 had periodontitis. These patients’ records were compared to a separate group of 251,161 patients who had no history of periodontal disease. The average age across both groups was 44 years, and 43% were male while 30% were smokers. Body mass index (BMI), ethnicity, and deprivation levels were similar across all groups.

Researchers analyzed the data and established how many of the patients developed heart conditions, including heart failure, stroke, and vascular dementia. Incidence of cardiometabolic disorders was also established, including high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, autoimmune conditions such as arthritis and type 1 diabetes, and mental health, including depression, anxiety, and serious mental illness. All participants had an average follow-up of approximately three years.

The study was published in the journal BMJ Open. It proved that patients with a recorded history of periodontal disease at the start of the study were more likely to go on and be diagnosed with additional conditions over an average of three years.

This was compared to those in the cohort without periodontal disease at the beginning of the research. Researchers recorded that patients with a history of periodontal disease at the start of this study increased their risk of developing mental illness by 37%, while the risk of developing autoimmune disease was increased by 33%, and the risk of developing cardiovascular disease was raised by 18%. It was also noted that the risk of having cardiometabolic disorder was increased by 7%, with an increased risk much higher for type 2 diabetes at 26%.

Periodontal diseases are prevalent, and the increased risk of chronic disease may represent a substantial public health burden, so the public must understand the connection between the two.

Health Concerns

As found in this study, heart health, memory, and brain function can all be affected by periodontal disease. To help with overall health and wellness, it is vital to keep good oral health and practice other positive, healthy lifestyle behaviors such as consuming a healthy diet.

But it isn’t always possible for a diet to provide all the vitamins needed to keep the body healthy. So, using a supplement can help fill in any gaps left by diet.

Heart Resue was designed to help support and promote cardiovascular health, including various ingredients, including omega-3 fatty acids, CoQ10, magnesium, and hawthorn extract.

For those who are concerned about brain health, The Smart Pill helps boost circulation, fight free radicals, and provide nutritional support to assist cognitive function.

At Bel Marra, no matter what health concern you may have, we have a formula that can help support and promote your healing.

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On any matter relating to your health or well-being, please check with an appropriate health professional. No statement herein is to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventative, or cure for any disease, disorder or abnormal physical state. The statements herein have not been evaluated by the Foods and Drugs Administration or Health Canada. Dr. Marchione and the doctors on the Bel Marra Health Editorial Team are compensated by Bel Marra Health for their work in creating content, consulting along with formulating and endorsing products.

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