Dental infections linked to stroke

A fascinating 10-year study conducted at a university in Finland has uncovered strong links between dental bacteria and the onset of blood clots resulting in stroke, heart attacks and deep vein thrombosis.

Clots removed from the brains of 75 stroke patients were analysed and found to contain DNA from oral pathogens, particularly streptococcus viridans. Streptococci are harmless in the mouth, but when they enter the bloodstream as the result of an infection, they can directly bind to various platelet receptors, making the patient more prone to blood clots. This large study highlights that dental hygiene may be even more importance to overall health than previously thought. You can read more on the Tampere University website.

Read more here: https://www.tuni.fi/en/news/first-time-finnish-study-proves-presence-oral-bacteria-cerebral-emboli