Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that the liver produces. It’s vital for the formation of cell membranes, vitamin D, and certain hormones. Eating too many foods that contain high amounts of fat increases the level of LDL cholesterol in a person’s blood. This is known as high cholesterol, also called hypercholesterolemia or hyperlipidemia. Can your mouth determine your risk of high cholesterol?
For decades, researchers have probed the link between gum disease and cardiovascular health, said Harvard Health.
The site continued: “Gum disease begins when the sticky, bacteria-laden film dentists refer to as plaque builds up around teeth.
“A completely different type of plaque — made of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in blood — can build up inside arteries.
“Known as atherosclerosis, this fatty plaque is the hallmark of coronary artery disease.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) health cholesterol levels should be:
LDL cholesterol: less than 100 mg/dL
HDL cholesterol: 60 mg/dL or higher
Triglycerides: less than 150 mg/dL.