A Healthy Smile Can Keep a Healthy Heart—Here’s How!

Besides Valentine’s Day, February is also known as Heart Health Month. This is the perfect time to learn how to boost your cardiovascular well-being. From the best kinds of food to the latest workout trends—you can try them all! There is, however, one other vital area most people don’t know about when it comes to their heart health: their gums. Read on as your dentist in Midland explains the importance of gum health for a strong heart.

Gum Disease & Heart Health

Keeping your gums healthy is all about avoiding periodontal (gum) disease—a bacterial infection in the gums that’s due to plaque buildup. The condition usually starts with swollen or puffy gums, but if left untreated, it can worsen into periodontitis. At this point, the bacteria are powerful enough to damage the connective tissues that help hold your teeth in place.

If these dangerous bacteria escape into your bloodstream, they can travel to other parts of the body, especially your heart. Once the bacteria and the inflammation they cause reach the inner linings or chambers of your heart, you’ll be at a very high risk of serious problems like heart attacks and strokes.

How Do I Avoid Plaque Buildup?

While research is ongoing, it continues to point out that those with gum disease are two to three times more likely to have a stroke or heart attack. To significantly reduce this risk, it’s important to avoid plaque buildup. You can achieve this by practicing the following:

• Brushing Twice a Day: Each time for two minutes, brush your teeth while paying close attention to your gum line.
• Flossing At Least Once a Day: Your brush won’t be able to reach the tight spots between your teeth. This is where your floss comes in for the finishing touch, effectively removing plaque and debris from the hidden areas.
• Understanding Your Risks: The risk for periodontal disease can stem from other factors like age, diet, and genetics. By knowing these and discussing them with your dentist, you’ll both have a better idea of how to go about your situation.
• Avoiding Tobacco: In addition to improving your smile, you’ll also reduce your risk of oral cancer.
• Visiting Your Dentist Twice a Year: With a firsthand look at your gum condition, your dentist can identify if there are any developments that might connect to other health issues.

With these few measures, you can actively help lower your chances of gum disease while also keeping your heart healthy. And if you have further questions, feel free to call you dentist today!

About the Author

Dr. Laura Philipps earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine at Tufts University. She is also a proud member of several dental organizations, including the Texas and American Dental Associations, and the American Equilibration Society. Using advanced technology with a passion for helping patients keep a winning smile, she provides multiple dental treatments including gum therapy to protect your gum health. If you want to schedule an appointment for gum disease treatment, visit her website or call (432) 570-4433.