Many people don’t realize just how much their dentist can improve their overall wellbeing. In fact, within the last several years, researchers have found that treating and preventing gum disease can benefit your cardiovascular system and reduce your risk of serious medical issues. Even though scientists have more research to conduct on the topic, they have discovered just how beneficial it is for people to take great care of their teeth and gums.
What Does The Research Say About The Connection?
Although there have been countless studies completed on this topic, one in particular should be highlighted, which is a study from 2014. Researchers found that the participants in their study who were treating their gum disease had 10 to 40 percent lower costs associated with the care of their heart. These findings established a strong link between the two issues.
Authors also combed through several different studies and concluded that gum disease increases the risk of developing heart disease by 20 percent. However, they did add that more studies needed to be done in order for a direct connection to be established.
With all of the evidence collected over the last decade, both the American Dental Association and the American Heart Association have highlighted the connection between gum disease and heart disease so people are aware of it and can take precautionary measures.
What’s the Connection Between Gum & Heart Disease?
Researchers predict that the direct connection between gum and heart disease is the toxins released by harmful oral bacteria in the mouth. When these bacteria feed off of sugar and carbohydrates found in your plaque, they release waste in the form of toxins that cause several of the early-stage symptoms of gum disease. These include swelling, redness, bleeding, and irritation. When the issue is left to get worse, the toxins can make their way into the bloodstream and travel to other areas of the body, including the respiratory and cardiovascular system.
Once present in the heart, these inflammation-causing toxins can increase your risk of experiencing heart attack, stroke, and other medical problems caused by heart disease. That’s why dentists recommend routine professional checkups and cleanings paired with thorough at-home oral hygiene.
How Can You Protect Your Wellbeing?
Even though gum disease is so prevalent, it’s actually not hard to prevent. All that’s necessary to look after your wellbeing is to focus on regularly cleaning and caring for your teeth and gums. Here are some tips from your dentist in Willow Grove:
- Brush twice every day using fluoride toothpaste for two minutes.
- Floss daily.
- Rinse with antibacterial mouthwash every day.
- Visit your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.
- Use oral hygiene products approved by the American Dental Association.
- Quit bad oral habits that can increase your risk of gum disease, including tobacco use.
- Maintain a nutritious diet.
- Be mindful of early signs of gum disease to intervene before it can cause permanent issues.
If you have any questions about the connection between these two diseases, be sure to ask your dentist during your next appointment. With the proper preventive measures in place, you can take care of your smile as well as your overall wellbeing!
About the Author
Dr. Krunal Patel has over a decade of experience helping his patients stop gum disease in its tracks with regular checkups and cleanings. By providing thorough and high-quality preventive dentistry, he’s able to help preserve his patients’ smiles and look after their overall wellbeing. He is an active member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. For questions or to schedule a routine checkup and cleaning, visit Advanced Smile Design’s website or call 215-659-3334.
