With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s safe to say that hearts have been on your mind lately. In fact, February is American Heart Month, making now the perfect time to learn how to care for your cardiovascular health. You probably know that getting plenty of sleep, exercise, and nutritious foods are a must for having a healthy heart, but did you know your oral health also plays a role? Specifically, gum disease may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Read on as a dentist in Florence explains the link between the two and how can keep your smile and heart healthy!
But First, What Exactly Is Gum Disease?
Usually the result of poor oral hygiene, gum disease develops when plaque and bacteria accumulate in the gum tissue. The first stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, can often be cured and even reversed. However, if the condition progresses to the second stage, called periodontitis, you might experience gum recession or even tooth loss!
The Connection Between Gum Disease & Your Heart
Gum disease might begin in the mouth, but that’s far from the only place where it can wreak havoc. Without treatment, gum disease can lead to health problems in several areas of the body, including the heart. Indeed, people with gum disease are two to three times more likely to experience a heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular events than those without gum disease.
One leading theory for this connection is inflammation. When the gum tissue is inflamed for too long, it sets off a chain reaction of inflammation throughout the body, which may include the veins and arteries that lead to the heart.
Another theory posits that bacteria are to blame. The mouth is a gateway to the body, so bacteria in the gums may be able to sneak into the bloodstream and infect other areas, including – you guessed it – the heart.
Easy Tips for Preventing Gum Disease
According to the CDC, an estimated 50% of adults in the U.S. currently have some form of gum disease. That being said, just because this condition is common doesn’t mean it’s inevitable. Taking a few easy precautions, like the ones below, can protect your smile and your heart:
- Remember to brush and floss – Brush your teeth first thing in the morning to clear away the bacteria that have built up overnight. Brush again before bed, and floss to get rid of food particles and plaque between your teeth. This minimizes your chances of gum infections as well as cavities.
- Say no to smoking – People who smoke are over twice as likely to develop gum disease as nonsmokers, so ask your dentist or doctor for resources to help you quit.
- See your dentist – When you visit your dentist every six months for a checkup, they can spot early signs of gum disease that you may not have noticed. Then, they can treat it before it has the chance to harm your smile.
This February, love hearts aren’t the only ones you should be thinking about. Spend some time setting habits that improve your smile’s health, and you can also enjoy a healthy heart for many Valentine’s Days to come!
About the Practice
At Florence Dental Studio, our goal is to provide stress-free, high-quality dental care that will leave you walking out of our office with a smile every single time. Our dentists strive to be as friendly as possible while we arm you with the knowledge and skills you need to fight gum disease. For more tips on keeping your smile and your heart healthy, reach out to us via our website or by phone at (609) 757-8623.
