Valentine’s Day usually steals the spotlight when February rolls around. Many people are busy planning romantic dates or finding the perfect gift for their special someone. However, there’s another significant reason why this month is special – it’s American Heart Month! That means there’s no better time to learn how you can improve your cardiovascular health. It may surprise you to learn that one of the best ways to keep your heart healthy is by taking proper care of your smile. Read on to learn more about this fascinating connection!
The Connection Between Your Oral Health and Your Heart
Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the soft tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth, affecting nearly half of all adults over the age of 30. This common problem is what ties your heart to your smile. Failing to seek treatment for it can result in complications like gum recession, loose teeth, tooth loss, and even jawbone deterioration.
Harmful bacteria that pass through the soft tissue can enter the bloodstream and attack your immune system, potentially causing inflammation within the blood vessels. It can increase the risk of a heart attack, stroke, or another cardiovascular event because of the blockage formed by a blood clot. Even though the connection between gum disease and heart disease is still a bit blurry, it’s known that a person with gum disease is three times more likely to experience these cardiovascular problems than the average person.
Tips to Keep Your Heart Healthy
The good news is that you can easily prevent gum disease and keep your heart healthy by taking the following precautions:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Make sure you brush for at least two minutes each time using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. It’ll help remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and along the gumline.
- Floss daily. It’s an essential practice that eliminates harmful substances from the nooks and crannies your toothbrush can’t reach, such as between the teeth and beneath the gumline.
- Avoid poor dental habits. Smoking and using tobacco can drastically increase your risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
- See your dentist regularly. Having a checkup and cleaning every six months is an excellent way to catch oral health problems early on.
- Minimize your risks. Factors like age, diet, and genetics can contribute to your likelihood of developing gum disease.
Make your smile a priority this Valentine’s Day. By taking proper care of it, you can ensure your heart stays happy and healthy for as long as possible!
About the Practice
At Legacy Dentistry, we take pride in providing exceptional and state-of-the-art dental care that’ll leave each patient smiling after every appointment. Our faith-based dental team believes everyone deserves our utmost compassion, expertise, and respect. If you’d like to learn more ways to keep your heart healthy, visit our website or call (972) 723-1148.