In the US, February is Heart Health Month. That means there has never been a better time to learn more about cardiovascular health. You probably don’t immediately think about your teeth when it comes to keeping your heart healthy, however, the two are far more connected than you may think. Keep reading to learn what your Houston dentist has to say about your oral health, how it directly affects the state of your heart, and steps that you can take to maintain cardiovascular well-being.
How to Maintain Oral Health to Keep Your Heart Pumping Strongly
There are some who will require transplants, but if you’re like mot people, your heart will be with you for your entire life. Of course, you want to take good care of it. You probably already know that practicing a regular exercise routine, getting plenty of rest, and eating a healthy, well-rounded diet are all things that are great for your heart. Did you also know that maintaining good oral hygiene plays a huge role in keeping your cardiovascular health in good condition? It might be surprising to hear that gum disease is an extremely common condition that has been directly linked to heart problems. Fortunately, it is completely avoidable, and here are some practical ways you can protect your heart from disease by keeping your oral health in check:
Stay on Top of Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Most people brush their teeth on a daily basis, but 30% either only floss when they feel something stuck in their teeth or not at all. Both practices work in tandem to remove plaque from the hard-to-reach places in your mouth and prevent bacteria from building up and infecting your gums. This is what leads to gum disease, which can infiltrate the bloodstream and ultimately the heart through the soft tissues in the mouth.
Don’t Skip Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings
Between work, appointments, events, and other things, your life is likely very busy. It can be easy for dental care to be placed on the backburner, however, seeing your dentist for regular preventive checkups and cleanings is one of the most important things you can do for your oral health. Every time you see your dentist, they check for signs of oral cancer and gum disease. If are able to identify potential issues early on, it can save you time and money on costly treatments and keep your heart safe from infection.
Say “No” to Tobacco
Most people know that tobacco can wreak havoc on your overall health, but it has also been identified as one of the primary causes of gum disease. Studies show that compared to non-smokers, tobacco users are twice as likely to develop gum and heart disease.
Be Aware of Risk
Just like any other illness, there are sometimes factors that are out of your control that may heighten your risk of being affected. For example, people who grow up in environments where the drinking water is not as pure or has a high concentration of fluoride often struggle with gum issues later in life. Other factors that affect the risk of gum disease are family history and age. The older you get, the more vulnerable your immune system becomes, and the harder it is to fight infection.
It’s never too late to start prioritizing your smile, and you have the power to prevent gum disease. Follow these tips to maintain your oral health and keep your heart in good shape so that you can enjoy a long, disease-free life!
About the Practice
There’s no group quite like the team of experts at Tamborello Dental Associates when it comes to the highest quality of dental care. They believe that good oral health starts with educating their patients on how to care for their smiles. They have years of training and experience under their belts, which enables them to provide the highest quality of care. Are you ready to schedule your next dental checkup? Request an appointment online or call (713) 522-7540.