Individuals who suffer from poor oral health and find themselves requiring emergency dentistry treatment could be putting their hearts at risk.
This is according to Michael Froeschl, an interventional cardiologist at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, who told the Ottawa Citizen that good dental hygiene is “critically important” for those who are vulnerable to heart and heart valve infections.
Patients who have recently had valve replacement survey should work hard to keep their teeth and gums clean, as they are particularly susceptible to developing infections, he observed.
Dr Froeschl concluded that “regular dental visits and oral care at home” is crucial for people who have artificial valves fitted.
An upcoming event organised by the New York Academy of Sciences will discuss the link between oral health and diabetes. Dentist Martin Gillis told the Citizen that periodontal diseases can be more severe among those who suffer from the blood condition.