Do you remember that song from elementary school? The one that goes, “Your arm bone is connected to your shoulder bone, your shoulder bone is connected to your neck bone?” Well, it turns out that these simplistic lyrics are true in more ways than you’d expect. In fact, your cardiovascular health is directly connected to your dental health. In this article, the team at Distinctive Dentistry explains the connection. Learn how to protect your smile – and your heart – in this post from the most respected dentist in Hiram, GA.
How Does My Smile Affect My Heart?
Dr. Jack Bickford and Dr. Bobby Shirley explain that maintaining good oral health can prevent diseases that impact your entire body. In fact, keeping your smile up-to-par can inhibit conditions like:
- Endocarditis – This medical condition is the inflammation and infection of the inner lining of your heart, also known as the endocardium. When this happens, a primary reason is that bacteria or other germs from your mouth spread through your bloodstream and infect this vital coronary tissue.
- Cardiovascular Disease – Many years of research have shown that there is a connection between heart disease, and the inflammation and infection that comes from the presence of oral bacteria.
How Are Gum Disease & Heart Health Related?
Studies have shown that people with periodontal disease are at higher risk of developing coronary artery disease. Doctors believe that bacteria from the mouth could form fatty plaques in the arteries or release toxins that create the same types of plaques. Another possibility is that oral bacteria could make the liver over-produce some proteins that inflame the blood vessels, leading to heart attack or stroke.
Keeping this in mind, gum disease can be prevented with professional care and discipline in your at-home oral hygiene routine. Be sure to see us every six months and reach out to us right away if you’re experiencing the symptoms of gum disease:
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Tooth sensitivity, especially near the gum line
- Chronic bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Changes in your bite or how your teeth fit together
How Can I Keep My Heart & My Smile Healthy?
We recommend the following strategies to improve your dental and cardiovascular health:
- 2x2x2 – Brush gently twice a day for two minutes. See your dentist at least twice a year for preventive care like exams and cleanings.
- Floss – Brushing alone leaves almost half of the surface of your teeth without care. Flossing is crucial to clean bacteria out of the gum line and in between teeth – be sure to floss at least once a day.
- Eat Right – Cut out sugar since it causes tooth decay and enamel damage – this includes sweet beverages like sodas and fruit juices. Instead, load up on leafy greens and dairy that are chock full of calcium – and say cheese, because this treat can ward off cavities.
- Don’t Smoke – If you use tobacco products in any form, you’re putting yourself at serious risk for oral cancer, as well as heart attacks and strokes. Stop today – you’ll eliminate bad breath, reduce gum disease, and improve your overall health in the process.
- Be Honest – Be honest with us when giving us your medical history, especially if you have cardiovascular disease. And, since it’s important for us to know about all the medications you take, for any and all health conditions, let us know about your current prescription regimen.
Now that you know how your dental health can impact your heart, schedule your appointment with Distinctive Dentistry to keep your entire body healthy!
