New Analysis Debunks Connection Between Gum Disease and Heart Attack

New Analysis Debunks Connection Between Gum Disease and Heart Attack By REUTERS
Published: April 18, 2012

For 20 years, researchers have reported a link between gum disease and heart attacks or stroke, but a new analysis finds that claim seriously flawed — so much so that the American Heart Association issued a rare scientific statement on Wednesday concluding that gum disease has not been shown to raise the risk of cardiovascular illness, let alone cause it. The statement added that treating gum disease either professionally or by regular brushing and flossing has not been proved to reduce the risk of heart disease or stroke. The statement reflects a three-year analysis of about 600 studies by an expert committee, led by a dentist and a cardiologist. It was endorsed by the American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs

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