There is a growing understanding that dental health is linked to overall health, and we want you to be updated on this topic. In a study of more than 1,200 American women with an average age of 63, scientists found some oral bacteria were associated with the development of high blood pressure. These findings were published in the Journal of the American Heart Association. Although the study was an observational study, the findings highlight the possibility of enhancing high blood pressure prevention through targeted oral care, researchers said.
In this study, researchers recorded blood pressure and collected oral plaque from below the gum line, where some bacteria keep gum and tooth structures healthy, while others cause gum and periodontal disease. A total of 245 strains of bacteria were identified in the plaque samples.
The analysis found:
Even after factoring in demographic, clinical and lifestyle factors (such as older age, high cholesterol, diet and tobacco use) that also influence the development of high blood pressure, the results remained consistent. The risk of heart disease and stroke is increased with high blood pressure. In the United States, nearly half of adults have high blood pressure, so it is increasingly important to find new approaches to prevent this disease.
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