February is American Heart Month, and that means that there has never been a more appropriate time to learn about cardiovascular health. When it comes to the condition of your heart, you may not have ever thought of oral health as a factor, but the truth is, it has a direct impact. Keep reading to learn what your Columbia dentist has to say about the health of your teeth and gums and how important it is to keep them in good condition so that your heart stays in good shape as well.
How Does Your Oral Health Affect Your Heart, and How Can You Promote It?
Unless you require a transplant, your heart will be with you for your entire life, so you want to take the best possible care of it. Like most people, you’re probably aware that diet and exercise play a huge role in heart health, but did you know that the condition of your teeth and gums does too? Gum disease affects more than three million Americans each year, and it has been directly linked to strokes and heart disease due to the infection that can enter into the bloodstream through the soft tissues. Although it is a serious condition, gum disease is completely preventable. Here are a few tips to help you protect your gums from infection:
Brush and Floss Every Day
Most people would say that they brush their teeth on a daily basis, however, research shows that 30% only floss when they have something stuck between their teeth or never. Your toothbrush can only do so much, and when it comes to the hard-to-reach areas in between your teeth, floss helps remove plaque and bacteria, keeping them from accumulating and causing infection.
Don’t Forget to See Your Dentist
Your dentist didn’t spend years training and learning about oral health for nothing. They have a trained eye that can help them identify potential issues long before they become larger ones. Seeing them on a regular basis for deep cleaning and a checkup is one of the best ways to ensure your gums and heart stay healthy.
Avoid Tobacco
Tobacco is one of the leading causes of gum disease. Compared to non-tobacco users, those who smoke or chew it are twice as likely to suffer from periodontal disease. Tobacco not only hinders the body’s ability to heal by lowering the immune system, but it also causes the heart to have to work twice as hard to pump blood throughout the body.
Know if You Are at Risk
Factors like family health history, age, and upbringing all play a part in your risk of gum disease. Children who grew up drinking water that was not very clean are at higher risk. The older you get, the more vulnerable your immune system will be, also putting you at a higher risk. That’s why it’s so important to promote gum health early on in life.
Regardless of your age or the current state of your oral health, it’s never too late to start prioritizing it. Talk to your dentist about how to know if your gums are healthy, and make a plan to keep them in good condition so that your heart stays in tip-top shape as well.
About the Practice
If you’re searching for a dental practice where you can receive high-quality care from skilled and experienced dental professionals, then look no further than the team of experts at Beck Dental Care. It is their priority to make sure that all of their patients feel at home and at ease in their office. They are committed to ensuring that everyone they care for has the knowledge and tools they need to maintain good oral health. To schedule an appointment, visit us online or call (931) 388-8452.