Valentine’s Day isn’t the only reason February is filled with hearts… It’s also American Heart Health Month! Recognizing this occasion is important for numerous reasons. Most notably, more than 2.5 million Americans have been diagnosed with one or more forms of cardiovascular disease (CVD). As a result, it’s one of the leading causes of death among men and women. The good news is that there are several preventive measures you can take to keep your heart happy and healthy, including taking care of your teeth and gums!
The Important Link Between Heart and Oral Health
An infection in your mouth is close to your digestive tract, your bloodstream, and your veins. Therefore, it’s not hard to see why keeping your teeth and gums in pristine condition is essential for both your oral health and your overall well-being.
Over the years, studies have found a substantial connection between periodontal disease and heart disease. In short, if left untreated, the infection stemming from plaque build-up can travel to your vital organs, including your heart. As a result, patients with gum disease are 2-3x more likely to experience a cardiovascular event, like a heart attack. So, in an effort to keep your heart healthy, it’s of the utmost importance that you implement a solid oral hygiene regimen.
7 Tips for Avoiding Plaque Build-Up
Preventing dental problems, like cavities and gum disease, requires much more than simply brushing twice a day. To keep your oral health in tip-top shape, make sure to:
- Floss daily between each tooth (even the hard-to-reach back molars).
- Visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning.
- Cut back on your sugar intake.
- Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables, like apples and carrots.
- Quit unhealthy dental habits, like smoking.
- Drink lots of water throughout the day.
- Rinse with mouthwash regularly.
6 Additional Tips for Improved Cardiovascular Health
As mentioned above, prioritizing your oral health is just one of many best practices you should be following in the name of your cardiovascular health. Here are a few more:
- Get 30-60 minutes of exercise each day, even if it’s just a light walk.
- Try deep breathing or meditating regularly to lower your stress levels.
- Talk to your doctor about risk factors, like age and genetics.
- Don’t overeat.
- Eat a well-balanced, vitamin-dense diet.
- Don’t engage in unhealthy habits, like tobacco use.
Prevention is key for both your oral and your cardiovascular health. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, like bleeding or inflamed gums, then get in touch with your dentist to discuss your treatment options. The sooner you do, the more manageable the condition is!
About the Practice
At Boerne Dental Center, our talented dentists know that providing exceptional dentistry isn’t just to keep your teeth healthy, it’s to aid your overall well-being! That’s why we go the extra mile to provide top-tier preventive, restorative, and cosmetic care that is personalized to your unique dental needs. If you are interested in learning more about the link between cardiovascular and oral health, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team via our website or by phone at (830) 249-2045.