The Connection Between Oral Health and Heart Disease

Keeping your mind on your oral health–your gums, in particular–will prove to be beneficial in the long run. Not only will you be rewarded with a glowing smile, you will be keeping your heart healthy as well. Not to mention, all the money you’ll save in avoiding huge dental bills because of your diligence in caring for you teeth.

Oral health and heart disease are connected in many ways people do not even realize. As a matter of fact, there are two crucial connections between them. The first connection is that oral health can be a good indicator of whether or not a person is suffering from a disease. The second is that people with gum problems in the moderate or higher stages are more likely to suffer from a heart disease.

The hazardous factors that cause gum disease are in fact the same as those that cause many heart diseases. These factors include the constant and excessive use of cigarettes, inadequate nutrition and diabetes. Additionally, people are more likely to suffer from a heart attack if they have chronic gum ailments, based on a study conducted by the Academy of General Dentistry.

Gum ailments aren’t usually given the immediate treatment that is very much needed because people tend to ignore the warning signs. Watch out for soft, red and constantly bleeding gums while you are brushing or flossing your teeth. Also be aware of severely bad breath, as well as teeth that are loose. If you notice any one of these signs, chances are you may already be suffering from gingivitis. See your dentist immediately!

Going through dental examinations on a regular basis is absolutely necessary if one wants to attain both a healthy mouth and heart. Removal of plaque, tartar and bacteria can make a huge difference in maintaining not only good oral health, but also excellent overall health.