Produced by the Children’s Heart Association in collaboration with Kim Laurie, Cardiac Liasion Nurse, Manchester Children”s Hospital and Jan Clarkson, Oral Health Network.

What have teeth got to do with the heart?

Dental disease or its treatment can cause a disease of the heart called Infective Endocarditis. This is an infection of the inner lining of the heart caused by bacteria in the blood stream.

How do bacteria enter the bloodstream?

What causes dental disease?

Bacteria (germs) in the mouth feed off sugar in food we eat. The sugar is converted to acid which can cause decay. Bacteria also make the gums inflamed and can cause gum disease.

How do you prevent dental disease?

Control sugar

• Avoid sugary foods and drinks between meals. Sweets are best given after a meal.

• Do not put sweetened drinks in bottles for young children.

• Ask for sugar-free medicines.

Tooth Brushing

• Help and encourage your child to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Choose a small brush and use a small pea size amount of toothpaste for under 6 year olds.

Register with a dentist.

Register your child as soon as possible and inform the dentist that your child has a congenital heart defect. Your dentist will then be able to provide the best possible advice and treatment.

Ask for advice about fluoride supplements.

Your dentist will be able to provide plastic coatings to protect your child’s adult molar teeth when they erupt at around 6 years of age.

The cardiac team recommend…