Could the bacteria in your mouth give clues about high blood pressure (hypertension) risk? An interesting new study reported by the American Heart Association (AHA) revealed a potential link between oral bacteria and high blood pressure. These findings, although not a definitive cause and effect relationship, can help improve research and our knowledge regarding hypertension prevention.
In general, blood pressure is measured based on two measurements including systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Systolic blood pressure refers to the pressure recorded when the heart beats and is the top number on a blood pressure monitor. Whereas diastolic blood pressure is the pressure recorded in-between heart beats and is the bottom number on a blood pressure monitor. The AHA indicates that measurements of systolic blood pressure of 130 mm Hg or higher, and/or measurements of diastolic blood pressure of 80 mm Hg or higher indicate high blood pressure.
According to the AHA, almost half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for many other illnesses including heart disease. Previous research has suggested that individuals with a severe form of gum disease, known as periodontal disease, are likely to have higher blood pressure than individuals without periodontal disease.
This new study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, reviewed records from 1,215 postmenopausal women taken from the Buffalo Osteoporosis and Periodontal Disease Study in Buffalo, New York conducted from 1997-2001. The average age of the study participants was 63 years old. The participants recorded blood pressure, oral bacterial plaque samples, and medical and social histories at time of study enrollment were evaluated. They found that approximately 35% (429) of the study participants had normal blood pressure (values below 120/80 mm Hg) without use of blood pressure medications. In contrast, they found approximately 24% (306) of participants had values recorded above 120/80 mm Hg without blood pressure medication use. Around 40% (480) of the participants reported that they were diagnosed and being treated for hypertension with medication at the start of the study.
In the collected plaque samples, researchers found 245 unique strains of bacteria. At the study’s follow-up period (approximately 10 years), about 1/3rd of the participants without hypertension at the start of the study were diagnosed with hypertension during the follow-up period. After accounting for various factors, the researchers found 10 bacteria linked to a 10% to 16% higher risk of developing high blood pressure, and 5 other types of bacteria linked to a 9% to 18% reduced risk of developing high blood pressure.
Senior author and research professor in epidemiology at the University at Buffalo, Michael J. LaMonte, Ph.D., M.P.H., said, “Since periodontal disease and hypertension are especially prevalent in older adults, if a relationship between the oral bacteria and hypertension risk could be established, there may be an opportunity to enhance hypertension prevention through increased, targeted oral care.”
Oral health and overall health go hand-in-hand. Poor oral health has been found to be linked to many health problems. Thus, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene and make sure you are visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups.
This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.
Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.
Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.
References:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/03/220302092705.htm