Valentine’s Day isn’t the only reason February is the month of love – it’s also American Heart Month! Since heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, being aware of how to reduce your chances of a cardiovascular event continues to be of the utmost importance. The good news is that something as small as implementing a solid oral hygiene routine can help. Here’s why!
How Your Oral Health Affects Your Heart Health
Gum disease is an oral health condition that roughly 50% of American adults struggle with. Unfortunately, this condition is often left alone to progress unchecked. In extreme cases, it can result in tooth loss, and the harmful bacteria can spread to your major organs via your bloodstream. Therefore, it’s not too surprising to hear that patients with gum disease are 2-3x more likely to have a stroke or heart attack.
5 Ways to Improve Your Oral Health at Home
While gum disease is prevalent, it is also largely preventable. That’s why it’s crucial to implement a solid at-home oral hygiene regimen. If you’re unsure where to start, here are a few things that should be a part of your daily routine:
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride to brush twice a day
- Floss each morning or evening
- Rinse with mouthwash every day
- Avoid unhealthy dental habits, like chewing on ice and smoking
- Limiting your intake of sugary foods and beverages
How Your Dentist Can Help Improve Your Heart Health
Even with a solid dental care regimen in place, it would be incomplete without your biannual checkups and cleanings. In addition to screening for tooth decay and oral cancer, your dentist uses these appointments to check for warning signs of gum disease. In the early stages, it’s much easier to treat and manage, benefiting your oral and overall health. Don’t worry – even if it’s progressed to a more severe case, they can create a custom treatment plan that will restore your healthy gums.
American Heart Month may only be a few short weeks, but it serves as a solid reminder to focus on what’s needed to keep you healthy year-round. If it’s been more than six months since your last checkup, then scheduling a visit with your dentist is a great place to start!
About the Practice
At Advanced Dental Concepts, our goal is to give you a beautiful smile that benefits your oral and overall health. That’s why we offer a wide range of treatments – from routine checkups to periodontal therapy. If you’re struggling with gum disease, we can intervene with effective solutions like antibiotic therapy and scaling and root planing. Want to learn more about how we can help? Then schedule an appointment with our team via our website or by phone at (219) 763-6878.