Could Tooth Decay Upset Heart Rhythms?

Could Tooth Decay Upset Heart Rhythms?
January 4, 2012

By Nancy Volkers
InteliHealth News Service

INTELIHEALTH - Older people with decay in the roots of their teeth may be at increased risk for heart rhythm problems, say Japanese researchers.

The study focused on the relationship between overall health and dental diseases, such as cavities and gum disease. It included 233 people. This was the first time that a study examined the development of heart problems over an extended time period.

People in the study had dental exams and heart tests once a year for 4 years. They also had blood tests to measure the level of C-reactive protein, or CRP. The liver makes CRP in response to inflammation.

People with higher levels of CRP also had more decay in the roots of their teeth. Root decay can occur when the gums pull back (recede) from the teeth. This exposes the roots, which do not have a protective layer of enamel. They are covered in cementum, which is softer and thinner than enamel.

In non-smokers, those with the most sites of root decay were nearly six times as likely to have heart rhythm problems as those with no root decay. These problems are called cardiac dysrhythmias. They can include a heartbeat that is too fast, too slow or irregular. Some are life-threatening.

Other studies have found a link between root decay and abnormal heart rhythms. And other oral diseases, such as periodontal disease, have been linked with heart problems. The authors concluded that the increase in heart rhythm problems could be due to increased inflammation.

The study appears in the December 2011 issue of the journal Gerodontology.