IN a study reported in 2002, Harvard Medical School researchers studied longevity and found one of the most important contributing factors was daily flossing. Because it removes bacteria from the teeth and gums, flossing helps to prevent periodontal disease and gingivitis.
In the light of recent findings from a University of Buffalo (UB) study, less mouth bacteria equates to lower risk of heart disease, and hence a better chance of living a longer life.
Research on oral health and heart problems
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Questions like "Does oral health cause problems for the heart and blood vessels?", and "Could improving oral health prevent cardiovascular problems?" were raised a few years ago in a publication by Harvard Medical School.And even earlier, these issues formed the nub of a 1999 presentation by University of Michigan dentistry Professor Walter Loesche at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Another study found that men with periodontitis had a whopping 72% greater risk of developing coronary disease. Gingivitis was associated with a 42% increased risk for men.
2009 study findings
The most recent study was at the UB which conclusions were reported at the April 2009 general session of the International Association of Dental Research held at Miami, Florida (USA).
The UB study identified for the first time two types of bacteria with a clear link to higher risk of heart attack. This has strengthened the connection between a dirty mouth and increased chances of a heart attack.
Lead UB researcher Dr Oelisoa M. Andriankaja said: "The message here is that even though some specific periodontal pathogens have been found to be associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease, the total bacterial pathogenic burden is more important than the type of bacteria.
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