There are many factors that can contribute to heart disease and increased heart attack risk. Did you know that brushing your teeth could help reduce this risk? While certain risk factors cannot be changed, it is important to realize that you do have some control over many others regardless of your age, background, or health status. Protecting your heart can be as simple as taking a brisk walk, eating healthy meals, maintaining an ideal weight, and properly brushing your teeth.
Among the five main oral diseases (pericoronitis, gingivitis, missing teeth, root remnants, and dental caries), it was found that pericoronitis was the strongest predictor of coronary disease. Numerous studies regarding a link between oral and heart health reveal an unexpected connection between the two, indicating that gum disease is associated with heart disease and chronic periodontitis, and that it is a condition which is an independent risk factor for coronary artery disease.
Oral health is a reflection of a person’s overall health as an adult. Periodontitis is inflammation and infection of the ligaments and bones that support the teeth. This is a result of poor oral health, which usually starts with not brushing your teeth. Regular brushing and flossing after breakfast, lunch and dinner is highly recommended if you want to reduce your risk of a heart attack resulting from poor oral health.
Studies show that regular cleaning at the dentist decreases the risk of heart diseases in adults by about 25 percent. It has also been shown that gum disease affects one in seven adults aged 35 to 44 years and one in four adults aged 65 years and older. More than 700 different types of bacteria live in the mouth. Poor dental hygiene allows these bacteria to flourish, and bleeding gums gives them direct access to the bloodstream.
Keeping your mouth healthy is obviously important so should you notice a slight swelling, bleeding of the gum or change in its color to red – do not ignore it. These could be signs of gingivitis which is the early stage of gum disease that later graduates to periodontitis.
If you have questions about your oral health routine or need to make an appointment for your bi-yearly cleaning, call The Dental Centre today. We have convenient locations in Stouffville, Sunderland, Uxbridge, Port Perry, and Burlington Ontario.