
Have you ever thought that the maintenance of teeth can also benefit the heart? Believe it or not, there are a lot of connections between the mouth and heart that you don’t know. Regular visits to the dentist in Little Italy and proper oral care can play a significant role in protecting both your teeth and your heart. In this blog, you will also get to know how maintaining the teeth and gums can also maintain the heart.
What is Oral Health?
Oral health is the health of the mouth, teeth and gums. Some of the practices that are considered to promote oral hygiene include brushing the teeth at least twice a day, flossing and visiting the dentist. When we have good oral hygiene we get to have healthy gums that are pink, there is no bad breath and our teeth are clean and free from plaque.
What is Heart Disease?
Heart disease is a term which is used to define diseases that affect the heart or the blood vessels. These conditions can prevent the heart from efficiently pumping blood to other parts of the body. Some examples include heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues. Heart disease is a very severe disease which can cause serious complications and can seriously affect the quality of life of people.
How Are Oral Health and Heart Disease Connected?
Research has shown a link between oral health and heart disease. When you don’t brush and floss your teeth regularly, bacteria build up in the mouth. This bacteria can infect the gums, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding. If untreated, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart. This can lead to inflammation in the heart, making it harder for the heart to function properly.
Gum Disease and Heart Disease
Gum disease is one of the fastest ways that oral health can impact the heart. Bacteria from infected gums can spread throughout the body. If you have gum disease, the bacteria in your gums enter the bloodstream, which can lead to inflammation in the blood vessels. This inflammation may result in heart conditions, such as heart disease, and can even increase the risk of death.
Bad Dental Hygiene and Heart Disease
When you fail to brush and floss your teeth, bacteria accumulate in your mouth. These bacteria can cause infection and inflammation in the gums, leading to gum disease or periodontal disease. If left untreated, this infection can enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart. This can lead to serious issues, including an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
Studies have shown that people who neglect their oral hygiene may be at a higher risk of developing heart disease. The bacteria can also attach(stick) to the blood vessels, causing them to stiffen and narrow, which raises the risk of heart disease and other related conditions. This can increase your risk of heart disease and other related conditions. Even though your teeth and gums might seem far away from your heart, they are closely connected.
How to Keep Your Mouth and Heart Healthy?
- Brush Your Teeth: Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day. This helps prevent plaque buildup, a bacterial film that can lead to gum disease.
- Floss Daily: Flossing is essential because it removes food particles and plaque between the teeth, which a toothbrush can’t reach.
- Visit the Dentist: Regular dental visits are important for detecting early signs of disease and preventing dental complications.
- Eat Healthy Foods: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables benefits both your teeth and your heart.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking is harmful to both your teeth and your heart. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do smoke, consult a professional for advice on quitting.
Key Takeaway
Taking care of our teeth and gums is not just about having a nice smile. It’s also about keeping our hearts healthy. By brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly, we can help prevent gum disease and protect our hearts. Remember, a healthy mouth means a healthy heart!
Rusholme Family Dentistry: Caring for Your Smile
At Rusholme Family Dentistry, we believe that healthy teeth are key to a healthy heart. Our experienced team of Little Italy dentist is here to help you maintain your oral health with gentle care and expert treatments. We provide regular checkups, cleanings, and gum disease prevention to keep your smile bright.
Visit us today for a healthier smile and heart! Book your appointment now at Rusholme Family Dentistry!