Dental Care and Your Heart Health
Heart disease is commonly caused by high blood pressure, high cholesterol, weight, a medical condition, lifestyle choices, or smoking. But, what about your dental hygiene? Studies suggest that patients with poor brushing habits are at a greater risk for developing heart problems.
How Gum Disease Impacts Your Heart
Gum disease is an infection in your gums caused by poor dental hygiene. Patients with gum disease have bacteria in their gums that cause inflammation and discomfort. In addition to the pain, the bacteria can spread through your bloodstream. Through the bloodstream, bacteria can gain access to the rest of your body, especially your heart. Bacteria can attach itself to damaged areas of your heart and cause inflammation there.
Warning Signs of Gum Disease
While it’s preferable to prevent gum disease from ever occurring, it is important to know the early warning signs to watch for
- Swollen, red gums
- Bleeding when you eat, floss, or brush
- Bad breath or bad taste in your mouth
- Teeth are loose or falling out
The best ways to prevent gum disease from starting is to brush at least twice a day and schedule regular hygiene appointments with your dentist. It is important to catch these warning signs early to prevent periodontal disease, which is when gum disease is chronic, and more advanced.
Keep Your Heart Healthy
In addition to brushing and flossing to prevent gum disease, there are other ways to keep your heart healthy. Consider changing some habits to lower your risk of heart disease.
- Make healthy food choices
- Be active in your daily life
- Quit smoking
- Control cholesterol and blood pressure
- Drink alcohol in moderation only
- Manage Stress
Stay Heart Healthy with Dental365!
You can visit any of our Dental365 locations in New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey to talk about dental care and your heart health. Contact us at (844) 365-DENTAL for more information or to schedule an appointment.
