The Connection Between Oral Health and High Blood Pressure

Scientists in a recent study have concluded that neglecting oral health may be one of the factors leading to high blood pressure and ultimately heart diseases. This research, published in the "American Journal of Preventive Medicine," examined the role of gum diseases in increasing blood pressure and demonstrated that inflammation caused by poor oral hygiene can affect blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. According to data from the World Health Organization, the number of adults aged 30 to 79 suffering from high blood pressure has doubled in the last three decades, with over 1.28 billion people worldwide affected by this disease. In Iran, according to the Deputy Minister of Non-Communicable Diseases of the Islamic Republic's Ministry of Health, 32% of the population over 18 years old suffers from high blood pressure. Dr. Tumi Patile, a heart and organ transplant specialist at the University of Helsinki Hospital, emphasizes that the mouth plays a key role in the overall health of the body. He states, "The mouth acts as a mirror of overall health and should be given special attention." Research has shown that gum diseases and high blood pressure share common risk factors such as smoking, unhealthy diet, and inflammation. Bacteria associated with gum disease can also contribute to inflammation in the heart and blood vessels, complicating cardiovascular health. Dr. Patile's studies have shown that even young patients may suffer from severe heart conditions caused by oral bacteria. For this reason, he, along with a team of specialists in chemistry, engineering, and dentistry, has developed a new antibacterial treatment that helps improve oral health. This method, which can be used at home, not only treats tooth decay but is also effective in preventing gum disease. Oral infections, especially gum disease, can cause chronic inflammation, leading to hardening of the arteries and damage to the endothelium. This condition can restrict blood flow and make the heart work harder to pump blood, ultimately leading to increased blood pressure. According to Dr. Patile's findings, poor oral hygiene, especially if it leads to gum disease, significantly increases the risk of high blood pressure, particularly in individuals under 65 years old. Those suffering from periodontitis (inflammation of the tissues surrounding the teeth) are also at high risk for uncontrollable high blood pressure. However, maintaining oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing, and periodic dental check-ups can significantly reduce these risks. Innovative treatments such as the use of "active antibacterial light" tools can also help eliminate plaque and bacteria that traditional brushing cannot reach, providing an additional layer of protection for oral and heart health.