Tooth infection cause high blood pressure is a true statement, but there is an indirect relationship between the two. Serious infections that involve the roots and surrounding tissues can cause bacteria to spread into the bloodstream, a condition called bacteremia. This can potentially affect other organs and systems in the body, including the cardiovascular system.
A tooth infection may lead to bacteremia, which can trigger an inflammatory response within the body. Chronic inflammation is believed to play a role in the development of various health conditions, including hypertension. Impaired blood vessel function and damage can occur with chronic inflammation, which can contribute to the development of hypertension over time.
What is high blood pressure?
Blood pressure is measured in two different ways, systolic and diastolic. Systolic blood pressure measures the force of blood on arteries while the heart beats, and diastolic blood pressure measures the force of blood on arteries when the heart is at rest. Narrow arteries can be damaged by excessive force, leading to complications like stroke or heart disease.
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, it is important to follow the dietary and exercise recommendations of your doctor and avoid smoking. For those with diabetes, it is especially important to monitor your sugar intake and insulin levels, as diabetes can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure.
How does the Tooth Infection cause High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can have an impact on oral health in several ways. Here are some connections between high blood pressure and oral health:
Gum disease: Studies have found a link between high blood pressure and gum disease (periodontitis). The infection known as gum disease affects the
gums and bones surrounding and supporting the teeth. It can lead to symptoms like gum inflammation, bleeding, and tooth loss. The exact mechanism behind the association is not fully understood, but it is believed that chronic inflammation plays a role in both conditions.
Medications: Many medications used to manage high blood pressure, such as beta-blockers and diuretics, can cause oral health issues as side effects. For example, dry mouth (xerostomia) is a common side effect of certain blood pressure medications. Reduced saliva production can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections.
Oral complications of hypertension: Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to various oral complications. Hypertension can weaken blood vessels, including those in the oral cavity, making them more prone to bleeding. People with high blood pressure may experience bleeding gums or other oral bleeding problems. Additionally, hypertension can contribute to atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries become narrow due to the build-up of plaque. This can affect the blood supply to the oral tissues, potentially leading to delayed wound healing or other oral health issues.
Dental anxiety:
High blood pressure can be associated with anxiety, and some individuals with hypertension may experience dental anxiety. Dental anxiety can prevent people from seeking regular dental care, leading to neglect of their oral health. This can result in the progression of dental problems such as cavities and gum disease.
Can my dentist help me?
Definitely! Due to the interconnectedness of the human body, your dentist may be among the first to identify potential health issues. Bad breath, mouth sores, and bleeding gums could be signs of a more serious condition. While these symptoms do not necessarily indicate high blood pressure, they may indicate other problems.
If you detect any abnormalities, it is suggested that you seek the assistance of your dental professional. It is also recommended that you have regular dental checkups and maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.
