When considering your heart health, you’re probably not thinking too much about your teeth. After all, your dental health has nothing to do with your cardiovascular health, right? Wrong! At Kaneka, we know that the best way to promote heart health is to keep an eye on your overall health. You should also know that if you’re not taking care of your teeth and gums, you’re putting yourself at higher risk for periodontal disease, which can lead to cardiovascular health problems.1
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Here’s a little more about the association between gum disease and heart disease, and what you can do about your oral hygiene and heart health.
Oral Health and Heart Disease
Taking care of your heart effectively means taking care of all of your body—even your teeth. Studies have shown that there is a link between gum disease and heart disease. Poor oral health can impact your heart because a bacterial infection that begins in the mouth can spread bacteria through the bloodstream, affecting the heart valves. Research findings reported by Delta Dental indicate that moderate or advanced gum disease is associated with increased risk of heart disease.
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Dental Care to Prevent Gum Disease & Support Heart Health
The best way to prevent gum disease and support heart health is to maintain proper dental care and oral hygiene. Be sure to brush your teeth thoroughly at least two to three times a day, for a solid two minutes each time. After brushing, remember to floss, as flossing can reach deep-set plaque that normal brushing cannot. Next, keep on top of your regular dentist visits, choose a healthy, reduced sugar diet, and last but not least, try not to smoke or use tobacco, as the nicotine in tobacco products can damage your gums over time and contribute to developing gum disease.
So next time you’re considering your overall heart health, don’t forget to think about your smile, too. Staying on top of your dental hygiene and tooth health can help fight against gum disease and promote heart health. For more great ways to stay heart healthy, sign up for our Healthy Heart Challenge.
