Montecito Dental

10/30/2025

Cavities and gum disease may nearly double stroke risk, new research finds.

A new study published in Neurology Open Access — the official journal of the American Academy of Neurology — found that people with both dental cavities and gum disease had an 86% higher risk of ischemic stroke compared to those with healthy mouths.

Researchers analyzed data from nearly 6,000 adults over two decades, showing that untreated decay and gum inflammation may create a chronic inflammatory burden that damages brain blood vessels and increases stroke risk.

The findings reinforce growing evidence that oral infections can affect the entire body. Bacteria and inflammatory toxins from diseased gums and decayed teeth can enter the bloodstream, triggering vascular inflammation and clot formation.

The study also noted that regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings reduced the likelihood of having both conditions by 81% — proving that maintaining oral health may also protect the brain and heart.

🧾 Journal Reference: Stefanie Wood et al. Combined Influence of Dental Caries and Periodontal Disease on Ischemic Stroke Risk. Neurology Open Access, 2025; 1(4). DOI: 10.1212/WN9.0000000000000036

10/30/2025

Recent Research Links Va**ng to Tooth Decay.

Va**ng is often seen as a safer alternative to smoking — but recent dental research is revealing a different story. Scientists from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine found that people who v**e have significantly higher risks of cavities, enamel erosion, and gum inflammation compared to non-v**ers. The sweetened e-liquids and chemical aerosols in v**e products can stick to teeth, feeding harmful bacteria that produce acid and weaken enamel over time.

Dentists are increasingly reporting a unique pattern of "v**e caries" — rapid enamel breakdown affecting even young, otherwise healthy mouths. These lesions tend to appear on smooth surfaces where sugary v***r condenses, creating a sticky film similar to that left by soda or syrup. Over months or years, this buildup can lead to dark cavities, increased sensitivity, and gum irritation that’s difficult to reverse.

What makes va**ng particularly deceptive is that it feels harmless — there’s no smoke, no odor, and no instant discomfort. But the invisible damage begins microscopically, where enamel starts dissolving long before decay becomes visible. Combined with dry mouth from ni****ne exposure, this creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive and teeth to decay faster.

📄 Source:
Irusa KF et al. J Am Dent Assoc. 2022;153(12):1179-1183. doi:10.1016/j.adaj.2022.09.013.
(Journal of the American Dental Association)

10/27/2025

10/21/2025

Research has found that inflamed gums aren’t just a mouth issue — they may signal inflammation happening throughout the body, including in the arteries of the heart.

Scientists discovered that the same bacteria found in gum disease can enter the bloodstream, trigger immune reactions, and accelerate artery plaque buildup — quietly increasing heart attack risk.

What’s shocking: patients with severe gum disease are twice as likely to suffer cardiovascular complications, even if they have no heart symptoms yet.

Regular dental cleanings and early gum treatment don’t just save teeth — they can literally protect your heart. The next check-up might be life-saving, not just smile-saving.

🔹 Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional dental advice.