Why do we do the things we do at Fellowship Square-Mesa?

The care and health of our residents is a very big concern to us. We found that good oral hygiene and good health are related.

Researchers have found that people with poor oral health are twice as likely to have heart disease, and that risk may be even greater for those with high cholesterol. Gum disease is caused by bacteria. The bacteria can break down the tissue between the gum and the tissue around the teeth causing inflammation. During our meals this bacteria can be swallowed and make its way to our bloodstream. When in the bloodstream it moves to other parts of the circulatory system.

The body’s natural response to infection is inflammation or swelling. It is possible that as oral bacteria travels through the body it triggers a similar response, which then leads to the formation of arterial plaque. This oral bacteria has been found on deposits in the arteries. These deposits grow and cause the arteries to narrow. When the deposits break loose they can clog the arteries and lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Scientists are still researching whether this is the root of the problem. One thing is for sure: It is firmly established that a link exists between gum disease and heart disease.