February is here, so you probably have Valentine’s Day on your mind. However, there is another reason to think about your heart. February is American Heart Health Month, so there is no better time than to be evaluating your cardiovascular wellbeing. Once of the ways that you can work to keep your heart in good health is by caring for your smile. The two have much more in common than you may think. Read on to learn more about how they are related and some tips for keeping them both in excellent shape.
How Are Oral and Cardiovascular Health Related?
Gum disease is a common problem faced by adults. In fact, approximately half of people over the age of 30 in the United States are suffering from the condition at one stage or another. Gum disease is defined as an infection of the tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth. When it’s left without treatment, it can progress, causing irreversible issues, like gum recession, loose teeth, tooth loss, and jawbone deterioration.
This infection isn’t limited to the oral cavity. People with gum disease are more likely to ensure other health issues, like diabetes and gum disease. It isn’t clear what the connection is, but it’s believed that people with gum disease are three times more likely to experience a heart attack, stroke, or another serious cardiovascular event in the long run.
How Is Gum Disease Prevented?
As common as gum disease is, it’s actually easy to prevent. Here are some steps that you can take to reduce the risk of developing it.
- Brush Twice Daily: To remove food debris, plaque, and bacteria from your smile, you need to brush twice with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. Don’t forget to give your tongue a scrub too.
- Floss Every Day: Brushing isn’t enough on its own. You need to floss to order to remove both plaque and bacteria from between the teeth and beneath the gumline.
- Don’t Smoke: Smoking doubles your risk of developing gum disease and is linked to oral cancer. Talk to your friends, family, and doctor about the best ways to give up this habit.
- Schedule Checkups: Every six months, you should see your dentist for a cleaning and checkup. They will be able to determine whether you’d benefit from gum disease therapy.
- Understand Your Risk: Certain facts can increase your risk of developing gum disease, like age, genetics, and diet.
By using the tips listed above, you can prevent gum disease and maintain a strong, healthy heart!
About the Practice
At Forever Young Dentistry Bayside, Dr. Michael Young, Dr. Joseph Samona, and Dr. Dominika Jarosz work together to treat patients in the Lenox community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. To learn more about gum disease prevention and treatment or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (586) 277-0080.