Dental Care And Strokes
A new strategy for helping prevent subsequent strokes
A new strategy for helping prevent subsequent strokes
A new study conducted by the UNC Adams School of Dentistry and the University of South Carolina School of Dentistry has found that dental care may reduce the chances of stroke patients having another stroke. The study was led by stroke specialist Souvik Sen at the University of South Carolina and was co-authored by James Beck, Ph.D., and Cristiano Susin, Ph.D., both of whom are distinguished professors at the UNC Adams School of Dentistry.
The study focused on the treatment of periodontal disease, a disease that can damage the tissue that holds teeth in place. It included a group of 280 patients and examined whether or not periodontal treatment has an effect on the chances of a patient developing a second stroke. Researchers found a preliminary indication of lower blood pressure for both groups and reduction in cholesterol for the standard group, although additional studies are needed to confirm those findings.
“We are encouraged by these results and hope that people who have experienced a stroke – and those who have not – will be sure to take care of their oral health to the best of their ability,” said Beck.
