One way to help prevent heart disease is to keep your mouth healthy and free of disease!
We all know that maintaining a healthy weight, eating a well-balanced diet, exercising and not smoking are ways to promote a healthy heart.
What you may not know is that brushing, flossing and visiting your dental professional regularly are also ways to promote cardiac health.
✓ Studies show that periodontal disease (gum disease) can increase the risk of developing heart disease.
✓ Poor oral hygiene creates the risk of bacteria entering the bloodstream, which can affect heart valves.
✓ Diabetics are at an increased risk of heart disease, so treating periodontal disease and preserving dental health for diabetics can have strong health benefits.
Periodontal disease is the result of infection and inflammation of the gums and the bone surrounding the teeth. It is this long-term inflammation that is a key contributor to heart disease and other medical issues.
What are the signs of Periodontal Disease?
- Swollen or red gums
- Gums that easily bleed
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Sensitive teeth
- Changes in the way the teeth come together
What can you do?
- Floss daily
- Brush for 2 minutes daily
- Visit your dental professional on a regular basis
- Do not ignore bleeding gums
- Treat periodontal disease – do NOT ignore it!
-Teresa Hanna, RDH
References:
Salinas, Thomas J. Will taking care of my teeth help prevent heart disease? 2020, November 10. https://mayoclinic.org.
Harvard Health Publishing. Gum disease and heart disease: The Common Thread. 2021, February 15. http://health.harvard.edu.