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Contents
  • Why Oral Hygiene Matters
  • Antibiotic Prophylaxis: Who Needs It?
  • The Role of Dental Procedures

Can Oral Hygiene Save Your Heart?

Can Oral Hygiene Save Your Heart?

The Big Picture

Good oral hygiene doesn't just keep your smile bright; it might also protect your heart. Learn how brushing your teeth can help prevent a serious heart condition called infective endocarditis.
Contents
  • Why Oral Hygiene Matters
  • Antibiotic Prophylaxis: Who Needs It?
  • The Role of Dental Procedures

Why Oral Hygiene Matters

Maintaining oral hygiene is vital for reducing the risk of gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis, and it also decreases the chance of bacteria entering the bloodstream. This is crucial because everyday activities like brushing can cause bacteremia, which is more likely to lead to infective endocarditis (IE) than dental procedures. Studies have shown that people with poor oral hygiene have a significantly higher risk of bacteremia, underscoring the importance of regular dental care.

Antibiotic Prophylaxis: Who Needs It?

Antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for individuals with the highest risk of adverse outcomes from IE, such as those with prosthetic heart valves or certain congenital heart conditions. The American Heart Association guidelines have narrowed the criteria for who should receive antibiotics before dental procedures, focusing on those most at risk. For most people, maintaining good oral hygiene is more effective than antibiotics in preventing IE.
Infective endocarditis is a serious condition where the inner lining of the heart chambers or valves becomes infected, often due to bacteria entering the bloodstream through poor oral hygiene.

The Role of Dental Procedures

Invasive dental procedures can increase the risk of IE, particularly those that manipulate the gums or oral tissues. However, routine dental cleanings are not typically a concern. The greatest risk comes from procedures like tooth extractions and oral surgery, highlighting the need for careful assessment of risk before treatment.

FAQs

What is infective endocarditis?

It's a heart infection caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream.

Who is most at risk for IE?

Those with prosthetic heart valves or certain congenital heart conditions.

Does brushing your teeth prevent IE?

Yes, good oral hygiene can lower the risk of bacteremia and IE.

Are antibiotics always needed before dental work?

No, only for those at high risk for IE complications.

Key Takeaways

Good oral hygiene is a simple yet effective way to protect your heart health.
Talk with Doctronic about how to maintain your oral health for a healthier heart.
Additional References
  1. Lockhart PB, Brennan MT, Thornhill M, et al. Poor oral hygiene as a risk factor for infective endocarditis-related bacteremia. J Am Dent Assoc 2009; 140:1238.
  2. Wilson WR, Gewitz M, Lockhart PB, et al. Prevention of Viridans Group Streptococcal Infective Endocarditis: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation 2021; 143:e963.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.