KEEPING A HEALTHY HEART STARTS WITH YOUR SMILE

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. If you're embarrassed about your teeth, you're less likely to smile.

Why is a healthy heart important?

Your smile may be covered with healthy teeth, but you can still develop heart disease if you don't keep your heart healthy as well. Cardiovascular disease is a big threat in the United States. In fact, it's responsible for over 600,000 deaths each year and over $300 billion in healthcare costs. The risk increases with age and with an unhealthy diet and lifestyle. Even people who are perfectly healthy can get heart disease due to genetics or environmental factors.

In order to prevent heart disease from developing, you should eat a healthy diet and limit your alcohol and salt intake. You should also get plenty of exercises, quit smoking, and reduce stress as much as possible. Regular visits to the dentist can also reduce your risk of developing gum disease, which has been linked to heart disease.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection in your mouth that can also cause inflammation in your blood vessels. This can result in a number of serious health problems like cardiovascular disease, stroke, and pregnancy complications. That's why it's so important to keep your gums healthy! Luckily, it's also very preventable with proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist.

In addition to brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time, you should also floss daily to remove plaque between teeth that your toothbrush can't reach. Limiting your consumption of sugary foods and beverages can also help prevent tooth decay. You should also visit your dentist for regular checkups every six months or as often as they recommend. Your dentist will be able to find and treat any signs of gum disease early before it leads to more serious health problems.

How is heart disease linked to oral health?

Heart disease has been linked with your oral health in a number of ways. If you're at risk of heart disease or you have heart disease risk factors, it's important to practice good oral hygiene habits to protect your heart.

Cardiovascular disease and gum disease share common risk factors like smoking and high blood pressure. While your dentist can't directly treat your underlying heart condition, they can still help you prevent oral problems that could lead to heart disease and other complications. -Knowing this, it's beneficial to see your hygienist for cleanings regularly. Your dentist can check for signs of oral cancer and periodontal disease—both of which can lead to heart problems if left untreated. They can also talk to you about proper brushing techniques, flossing techniques, and other tips for at-home care.

If it's been a while since you've seen a dentist, now's the time to get back on track toward better dental health. Schedule your next checkup today!