When you think about keeping your heart healthy, you probably don’t think about brushing and flossing your teeth. However, there’s a growing body of research that suggests that we should! Numerous studies are finding that there’s an important connection between your oral health and your overall wellbeing. Notably, health and dental experts are discovering that unhealthy gums are linked to your risk of cardiovascular disease. Read on as your Stephens City dentist explains how great oral hygiene takes care of both your smile and your heart.
The Link Between Oral and Overall Health
Did you know that more than 90% of systemic, whole body diseases present symptoms in the mouth? For example, your dentist may be the first to notice early warning signs of conditions like:
- Osteoporosis, since the resulting bone loss can be seen in a routine dental X-ray of the jawbone.
- Diabetes, which often causes bleeding gums and chronic bad breath.
- Cancer, which could be identified by swollen glands or strange lumps in the throat or mouth.
Similarly, the health of your mouth can influence the rest of your body as well:
- Oral bacteria, if left unchecked, can be inhaled into the lungs to cause respiratory diseases.
- Abscessed teeth could cause changes in facial structure and eating patterns.
- Mouth infections are linked to several issues like rheumatoid arthritis and pregnancy complications.
Gum Disease and Heart Health
Recently, the relationship between gum disease and heart health has become of particular interest to experts. More research is needed to fully understand this connection, but studies indicate that gum disease can increase a person’s risk of heart disease by up to 20%. Many researchers believe that infections in the heart’s inner linings could be the result of harmful bacteria from gum disease escaping into the bloodstream. Additionally, gum disease causes inflammation, which could spread throughout the body and clog arteries. Even though we may not fully understand how gum disease influences heart disease, the American Heart Association and the American Dental Association agree that the connection is undeniable.
Protecting Your Smile and Your Heart
Recent surveys show that nearly half of Americans have heart disease and an estimated 75% suffer from some stage of gum disease. Since these conditions are so widespread, it’s important to stay healthy with great oral hygiene habits like:
- Practicing an effective dental routine: The American Dental Academy recommends brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day with a soft-bristled manual or electric toothbrush. Flossing and using mouthwash daily are highly suggested as well.
- Establishing a healthy lifestyle: Eating too many sugary foods and using tobacco products both have negative effects on your smile and your heart. Continue to make healthy lifestyle choices like staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and quitting tobacco products.
- Seeing your dentist twice a year: When you get a routine dental checkup every six months, your dentist can spot and stop any developing oral health issues, often before you can see or feel them. Detecting gum disease as early as possible can prevent long term damage and lower your risk of heart disease.
About the Author
Regular dental checkups from your local Stephens City, VA dentist Dr. Thomas Gromling are a great way to keep your smile happy and healthy for years to come. His thorough cleanings ensure that your teeth and gums are sparkling clean and bacteria-free. The following examination allows him to inspect your mouth for any signs of gum disease, which can be treated quickly, easily, and comfortably with a specialized deep cleaning. If you’re concerned about how your gums may be influencing your overall health, feel free to contact him via his website or at (540) 869-4377.