Your Heart Health and Your Smile

Believe it or not, the health of your teeth and gums are essential for more than just an attractive smile. Research shows your dental health directly influences your heart health. In fact, your mouth is often referred to as “the gateway to your general health.” There are several dental issues that can negatively impact your body, but gum disease is one of the biggest factors to compromise your wellbeing, especially the cardiovascular system. Your dentist in Pleasant Grove can protect your smile and heart by stopping the infection in its tracks.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a preventable infection caused by bacteria found in plaque and tartar accumulations from improper oral hygiene habits. Although it can be avoided, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates at least 50% of adults have a form of it. It can be treated in the early stages without any long-term damage; however, many Americans ignore the early warning signs. As a result, it destroys the supporting structures of your teeth, making it the leading cause of tooth loss.

Unfortunately, your teeth and gums aren’t the only areas to suffer the consequences of untreated gum disease. It can also wreak havoc on your general health, particularly your heart.

How Does Gum Disease Impact My Heart Health?

The bacteria responsible for the infection can enter your bloodstream through the pressure of regular chewing. As it circulates throughout the body, it causes inflammation and deposits in the arteries. This significantly increases your risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke. Research shows the risk of heart disease can increase by as much as 20% for patients who don’t receive treatment for gum disease.

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

Although gum disease is common, there are several steps you can take to prevent the infection, such as:

• Brush your teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes each session.
• Floss every night before going to bed.
• Don’t smoke or use tobacco.
• Don’t drink alcohol in excess.
• Visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.

If you develop gum disease despite a proactive approach, it isn’t a death sentence for your smile. Your dentist can stop the infection before it causes irreversible damage. If you develop bleeding, red, or swollen gums, don’t wait to contact your dentist. Often, they will recommend scaling and root planing. The deep cleaning procedure removes tartar buildup to restore a healthy smile.

Get a Healthy Mouth and Heart

With your heart health and smile intertwined, it’s essential you maintain your oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly. If you suspect you have gum disease, don’t wait until it’s too late to see your dentist.

About Bear Creek Family Dentistry

Bear Creek Family Dentistry features a team of general and specialty dentists striving to provide personalized solutions for each patient. We focus on prevention to keep the teeth and gums healthy, but we also offer the comprehensive care you need to restore common dental issues, like gum disease. If you have signs of the infection, contact our office today for an appointment.