Have you or someone you love ever faced the shock of a sudden cardiac event? Are you worried about what might be lurking beneath the surface when it comes to your heart health?
Did you know that half of unexpected heart attacks and strokes are linked to oral bacteria? About 80% of Americans over 35 have some level of gum disease, and research shows that people with gum disease are twice as likely to die of a heart attack and three times more likely to die from a stroke. This is because pathogenic oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream, reach the artery walls, and cause inflammation, which thickens those walls.
At Complete Health Dentistry of Columbus, we aim to bridge the connection between oral health and overall health, focusing on the oral systemic connection. This month, we are focused on the oral health connection to cardiovascular health. Our team, led by Dr. Barb McClatchie, works in close partnership with cardiologist Dr. Eric Goulder and the Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Center of Central Ohio to help you achieve whole-body health. Together, we focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of these serious health concerns, empowering you to prevent life-altering events before they occur.
Why Would a Dentist Care About Arterial Inflammation?
While it may be surprising to think of your dentist in terms of heart health, this connection lies at the core of our practice.
When harmful oral bacteria enter the bloodstream through everyday actions like brushing your teeth, flossing, or even chewing—depending on the severity of your infection—they can attach to artery walls and trigger inflammation. Over time, this can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, thickening the artery walls and increasing the risks of heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, and other systemic inflammatory diseases. Dr. McClatchie and her team are specially trained to address these health connections through their advanced training and protocols, helping you to reduce and reverse the risks of these serious outcomes.
Using the BaleDoneen Root Cause Tree to Understand Inflammation
Our preventive care is grounded in the BaleDoneen Method, which at the core of their protocol utilizes a root cause tree to outline the root causes of cardiovascular disease. This framework maps out triggers of inflammation—such as infections in the mouth, genetic factors, and lifestyle habits—allowing us to directly target and address them. According to the root cause tree, three critical root causes of arterial inflammation—periodontal disease, endodontic disease, and obstructive sleep apnea—can only be effectively treated by a complete healthcare team. By collaborating to treat these underlying causes, we focus on preventing and reversing disease from progressing rather than simply managing symptoms.
A Comprehensive Approach
Based on your oral health status and your goals for health, we offer collaborative care with the Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Center of Central Ohio. By examining the whole body for sources of inflammation, we can better protect both your heart and oral health, stopping inflammation before it escalates into more serious health issues. This collaboration ensures you receive truly comprehensive care, rooted in prevention and focused on your whole-body health.
Take Control of Your Health Today
Don’t let untreated oral health issues put your cardiovascular health at risk. Our team is here to help you take charge of your health and protect both your oral and cardiovascular systems for years to come.
If you or a loved one is concerned about heart attack or stroke risk, reach out today. Call us at (614) 885-3602 to schedule an appointment and discover how our preventive approach can give you a healthier future. Together, we’ll build a plan to protect your health from the inside out.
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