According to a recent Harvard University study, people with gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) have two-to-three times the risk of suffering a heart attack, stroke or other severe cardiovascular event. While we’re busy planning healthy diets, exercising regularly and trying to keep our stress levels low, many people overlook a strong oral hygiene routine, which is just as important for a healthy heart. In this post, you’ll learn how to identify and prevent gum disease—and possibly even heart disease—with a few simple steps.
How Are Your Mouth and Heart Connected?
It may seem like a strange connection, but researchers have long believed that gum disease increases the risk of heart disease. Gum diseases (such as gingivitis and periodontitis) are chronic inflammatory infections. They are caused when sticky, bacteria-infested plaque builds up around your teeth. This substance is not unlike the fatty, cholesterol-laden plaque that can harm your arteries and heart.
The effects of gum disease are not limited to your mouth. The bacteria plaguing your gums can also travel to blood vessels across your body, most notably your heart. Once there, the bacteria cause blood vessel inflammation and damage, leading to blood clots, heart attacks and even strokes.
What Are Signs of Gum Disease?
An early discovery and treatment of gum disease can help keep your entire body healthy. Make sure to talk with your dentist if you suffer from any of these common symptoms:
- Chronic bad breath
- Swollen, red or receding gums
- Frequent bleeding of the gums
- Sensitive, sunken or loose teeth
The damage caused by gum disease can be reversed if caught before the advanced stages. Its negative effects on your body can be reduced and controlled with the help of your dentist.
How Do I Prevent Gum (and Heart) Disease?
The link between gum disease and heart disease is clear, but there are many healthy habits you can adopt to reduce your risk of both conditions, including:
- Brushing your teeth and tongue twice per day
- Flossing between your teeth at least once a day
- Using mouthwash regularly
- Avoiding the use of tobacco (both smoking and chewing)
- Eating a high-fiber, low-sugar diet with lots of vegetables
- Visiting your local Orange Park dentist twice per year for checkups and alerting them if any of the symptoms listed above occur
Gum disease can have serious effects on your entire body, but it can also be easily prevented. Ask your dentist if you have any further questions or would like more tips on how to keep your gums healthy and your smile wide.
About the Practice
Crovatto & Edwards Family Dentistry is dedicated to keeping patients of all ages happy and healthy. Established by Dr. Steven Crovatto’s father, the practice has served Orange Park, FL, for over thirty years and continues to maintain a legacy of integrity and compassion. In their wide array of dental services, Drs. Crovatto and Edwards offer in-depth periodontal screenings and cleanings. If you have further questions about gum disease or care, they can be reached at their website or at 904-272-0800.