Recent studies by American researchers have uncovered a serious link between dental disease and the health of the brain and heart. The findings suggest that poor oral hygiene not only damages teeth and gums but can also increase the risk of stroke and brain injury.
According to the research published on a medical website, scientists in the United States conducted two separate studies examining the effects of dental and gum diseases on the brain.
The first study found that adults with dental disease showed more white matter changes in their brains — a sign of potential brain damage. White matter plays a key role in communication between different parts of the brain, and its damage can lead to cognitive decline and neurological disorders.
Stroke risk increases by 86pc
The second study revealed an alarming connection between oral health and stroke. People suffering from both dental and gum diseases were found to have an 86 percent higher risk of stroke compared to those with healthy gums and teeth.
Researchers believe that inflammation caused by dental infections may contribute to blood vessel damage, increasing the likelihood of blood clots and strokes.
Prevention through better oral care
Experts stress that maintaining oral hygiene can significantly reduce these risks. According to the findings, regular dental checkups, along with daily brushing and flossing, can lower the chance of stroke by up to 81 percent.
They emphasized that poor dental health doesn’t just affect the mouth — it can have widespread effects on overall body health, including the heart and brain.
Health experts also called for greater public awareness and lifestyle changes to prevent dental diseases. They advised that adopting simple daily habits such as brushing, flossing, and avoiding harmful substances can protect both oral and cardiovascular health.
“It is very important to adopt healthy lifestyle habits and increase public awareness to prevent dental diseases,” one researcher noted.
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