February is filled with red hearts, pink candies, and white flowers – it’s the month of love! But did you know that it is also Heart Health Month? With heart disease being the leading cause of death in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, now is the perfect time to focus on your cardiovascular health. While cleaning up your diet and getting plenty of exercise are the first two to-dos that probably come to mind, getting your oral health in good shape is equally as important. Here’s why!
The Connection Between Gum Disease and Heart Health
Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, is an infection that affects roughly 50% of American adults. If neglected, it can wreak havoc on your oral health, resulting in everything from bleeding gums to tooth loss. Unfortunately, this condition has also been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Since the harmful bacteria can easily enter the bloodstream and the digestive tract, patients are two to three times more likely to experience a cardiovascular event, like a heart attack or stroke. Fortunately, you can protect your teeth, gums, and heart health by practicing proper prevention.
7 Prevention Practices to Implement Today
All too often, patients view proper oral care as an option rather than a necessity. However, each of the below prevention practices plays an essential role in keeping your oral cavity, and overall health, in good condition:
- Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day.
- Floss daily.
- Use mouthwash regularly.
- Always clean your tongue.
- Visit your dentist every six months for a dental checkup and teeth cleaning.
- Cut back on your sugar intake.
- Avoid poor dental habits, like smoking and using your teeth as tools.
How Your Dentist Can Help
Once gum disease has developed, you need the help of a professional to get the infection under control. That’s where your dental team comes in. For minor cases, they can provide your teeth and gums with a deep cleaning. For more moderate cases, scaling and root planing may be in order. Plus, if any other restorative or cosmetic care is needed to repair the function and aesthetic of your smile, they can work that into your treatment plan as well!
This February, take the time to show your smile and overall health some love. A great place to start is by implementing the above prevention tactics and scheduling your biannual dental checkup and teeth cleaning!
About the Practice
Hill Avenue Dental is where high-tech tools, personalized service, and compassionate dentistry come together. Both Dr. Doug Clark and Dr. Douglas Clark III are passionate about providing nearby patients with the absolute best dentistry has to offer, which is why undergoing advanced training at prestigious institutes, like the Las Vegas Institute, and maintaining an active membership with multiple professional organizations is a priority for them. To learn more about the link between oral health and heart health, or to schedule an appointment, visit our website.