February is important for more than just roses and sweet treats. It’s also American Heart Month, which is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of preventing heart disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports 647,000 Americans die from cardiovascular disease annually. While you know diet and exercise can affect your heart health, did you know your smile also impacts it? In fact, there’s a direct link between the health of your smile and your heart. Thankfully, you can invest in a healthy mouth and body with periodontal therapy in Los Alamitos.
Heart Health and Your Smile
Besides tooth decay, gum disease is a large threat to your smile. Although it’s preventable, it’s the leading cause of tooth loss. Not only can the infection wreak havoc on your oral health, but research shows it can also contribute to heart disease.
Gum disease is caused by a sticky plaque that harbors bacteria. It builds near the gums from improper oral hygiene habits, infecting the gingival tissue. The bacteria can also enter the bloodstream through the pressure of regular chewing. This causes the body to respond with inflammation while also allowing fatty plaque deposits to form inside the arteries.
Research shows people who have the infection have 2-3 times higher risk of developing heart disease than those who have a healthy smile. This significantly increases the likeliness of heart attack, stroke, and other issues. When poor gum health is combined with an unbalanced diet, smoking, or excessive alcohol consumption, the risk of heart disease further increases.
Although gum disease can be avoided, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates at least 50% of adults have a form of it. You can protect your mouth and your heart by preventing the infection.
Protecting Your Heart Health
There isn’t direct evidence indicating cardiovascular disease can be avoided by treating gum diseases; however, there’s a connection between the infection and your heart health.
As you spend time sharing your love with your family this month, don’t forget to recommit to your smile. You can keep your gums healthy by following a few simple tips:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes each session.
- Floss in between each tooth every night before going to bed.
- Maintain a healthy diet.
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco.
- Don’t drink alcohol in excess.
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.
Maintain a Healthy Smile
If you develop any signs of gum disease, like red, inflamed, or bleeding gums, don’t wait to see your dentist. Quick intervention can save your smile and protect your heart’s health.
About Dr. William Poe
Dr. William Poe earned his dental degree from USC Dental School in 1988. Since then, he’s owned his private practice, where he helps his patients achieve optimal oral health to enhance their general wellness. He focuses on prevention to keep the teeth and gums healthy but also offers advanced services for more complex issues, like gum disease. If you need periodontal therapy, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.