Recent research from Forsyth Institute and Boston University scientists has shown that using an oral topical remedy to reduce inflammation associated with periodontitis also results in the prevention of vascular inflammation and can lower the risk of heart attack. Researchers for the first time have proven the ability of an oral treatment for gum disease to also reduce inflammation in the artery wall. The active ingredient is Resolvin E1, an inflammation-resolving molecule. This discovery further underscores the increasing body of evidence showcasing how problems in the mouth—and how they are treated—can have life- changing influences on other key systems in the body, such as the heart. Heart disease accounts for one in 4 US deaths. These findings suggest a need to expand the public’s understanding of risk factors beyond cholesterol, smoking, hypertension, and diabetes to also focus on oral health.
With support from the scientific community, Forsyth aims to generate greater awareness of gum disease as a critical risk factor for heart disease, independent from diet and lifestyle.
(Source: Forsyth Institute; ScienceDaily, April 14, 2015)