Gum disease does not cause heart disease, say researchers. But potential dangers still loom large.

“The myth is debunked!”

That’s how the Telegraph (a UK newspaper) described recent gum disease research.

In the new study, researchers say there is no evidence that gum disease causes heart disease.

They also noted that the “false message” spreads alarm among gum disease patients.

Maybe — but an alarm isn’t bad. It’s a warning. If gum disease isn’t the root cause of heart disease, the alarm is still important.

What we DO know is that gum disease is more common among heart disease patients.

Also, gum disease patients are nearly twice as likely to develop artery disease.

And gum disease patients have an increased risk of metabolic syndrome and head and neck cancer.

Obviously, something unhealthy is going on here. It’s a red flag that shouldn’t be ignored.

Sound the alarm!

Sources:
“Myth that gum disease causes heart attacks debunked” the Telegraph, 4/18/12, telegraph.co.uk