Brushing your teeth is likely not the first thing you think of when you think of heart health. However, there is one surprising thing here: your heart health and oral health are strongly connected. It can do more than get you cavities, though poor dental hygiene may predispose you to cardiovascular disease. So, what’s the connection? Let us get it down to bare basics.
The influence of bad oral health on your heart:
Billions of bacteria make their home in your mouth. Many of them are not dangerous; however, when you neglect your oral health, harmful bacteria can grow, leading to gum disease (gingivitis).
Bacteria may enter your blood when your gums bleed because of infection. Inside, they can move all around your body, and inflammation and constriction of blood vessels occur. Over time, this can lead to:
- Atherosclerosis (plaque in arteries).
- Increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
- In extreme instances, there are heart valve infections (endocarditis).
Why Inflammation Is the Actual Villain:
Inflammation is the way your body defends itself against infection- but when it becomes chronic, it is dangerous. A significant cause of chronic inflammation is gum disease. Studies have revealed that individuals who have poor oral health are at a 25%greater risk of developing heart disease than people with healthy gums. It’s one of the reasons why oral hygiene matters.
It is Not Only Your Heart–Your Brain is in Danger as well:
Research indicates that oral bacteria may also be associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other brain diseases. How? Gum disease and chronic inflammation may undermine the blood-brain barrier and expose your brain to harmful substances.
Easy Ways to Save Your Heart and Mouth:
Maintaining the health of the mouth is among the simplest methods of safeguarding health in general. Here’s what you should do:
- Brush your teeth twice a Day: Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste for 2 minutes.
- Floss Daily: Clean In areas that your brush can no longer cleanse.
- See Your Dentist Often: Early diagnosis will keep you out of trouble.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Healthy food will keep your teeth and heart strong.
- Avoid Smoking: Tobacco is bad not only to your gums but also to your heart.
Conclusion
Your body is the mouth of your body. It can be kept clean and healthy to avoid serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and even dementia. Therefore, the next time you brush your teeth, keep this in mind–you are brushing your heart too.
At Sky Dental, we believe that oral health is the foundation of overall well-being. Our highly skilled staff will offer superior dental services to ensure that you have a healthy smile and heart protection. Come to see us now and take the first step toward good health for your mouth and body.