The real, serious reasons oral hygiene is important: Heart Disease

If you’re at all familiar with how oral hygiene impacts your whole body health, you’ve probably heard of the link between heart disease and oral health. For decades, a link between heart disease and gum disease has been reported, but until the last few years, the reasons for this connection were not known. We now have a clearer understanding of why these two health issues are linked, and dentists and medical professionals are better equipped to diagnose and treat the two diseases in conjunction. Keep reading to learn more about the links between heart disease and gum disease and why visiting the dentist for your six month preventive dentistry exams is so essential.

Who’s Doing the Research?

Most of the recent studies have come from researchers in the United Kingdom. Working in conjunction, the University of Bristol and the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin conducted an in-depth study of gum disease and heart health, presenting their results at a conference in 2008.

What do They say?

They found what seems to be an indisputable link between gum disease and heart health. In the past, there has been correlation between the two diseases, but this study may tell us why the two health issues are so often experienced in conjunction. According to their findings, patients with gum disease, especially those with bleeding gums, have increased heart disease risk due to bacteria from the mouth entering the blood stream. This can cause blood platelets to form clots, which block the flow of blood to the heart, leading to heart attack.

How Can I Improve Oral & Overall Health?

The first step is reviewing your at-home hygiene routine. Brush teeth for at least two minutes at a time at least twice each day, floss daily, and use antimicrobial mouth rinse to reduce the numbers of oral bacteria. You should also visit the dentist at least two times each year for dental exams and professional teeth cleanings. Make sure to tell your dentist about any heart conditions and communicate changes to oral or heart health as soon as possible.

Meet the DeMartino Dental Group

Ready to get started improving your oral health and hygiene? Call the DeMartino Dental Group to schedule an appointment in our Philipsburg dentistry practice. We offer comprehensive dental care with treatment plans focused on preventive dentistry to help patients avoid oral health concerns before they begin. That includes careful screenings for gum disease. If you suffer from a heart condition, let our team know. We’ll be happy to work with you to avoid developing gum disease, which can increase risk for heart attack or failure. If you ever have questions or concerns about your oral health and how it may impact your overall wellbeing, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re always here to help.