February has been set aside as Heart Health Month, which is a time designated to raise awareness about the importance of preventative health. Given that heart disease claims more lives each year than any other condition, the goal of health professionals is to draw attention to ways to improve and maintain cardiovascular wellness. As you continue reading, a dentist explains the connection between gum and heart health and gives 5 tips for boosting your total wellness!
It Starts with the Gums
Always present in the mouth, oral bacteria seek to feed on leftover food and beverage particles. They are especially attracted to sugar, and when any residue is left on the teeth and gums, the bacteria hastily congregate in the areas, releasing acids as they digest the sugar. Over time, hundreds of bacteria can form plaque.
If ignored, plaque buildup can soon settle beneath the gum line and cause inflammation (called gingivitis). This is considered the first stage of gum (periodontal) disease, and if not addressed, there can be permanent damage to the underlying connective tissue and ligaments that secure tooth roots.
Bacteria aren’t just relegated to the mouth, though. They can eventually travel to other parts of the body to spread infection. If they migrate to the heart, there can be life-threatening effects, as they can contribute to clogged arteries and cardiovascular disease.
5 Ways to Protect Your Heart
Prevention is the key to maintaining excellent oral health and protecting your heart. Here are 5 tips worth applying:
#1 – Brush Your Teeth Regularly
Brushing your teeth at least two times a day will help to control bacteria growth. If you’re using a manual toothbrush, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you clean your teeth for two minutes each session to thoroughly remove any lingering particles.
#2 – Floss Consistently
Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth. In fact, these are the two pillars of dental hygiene. The flexibility of dental floss allows it to maneuver into the tight spaces between your teeth to remove food debris and bacteria.
#3 – Use a Tongue Scraper
One of the many unique features of the tongue is that it touches every part of the mouth. Therefore, if it’s not cleaned properly, it can transfer bacteria throughout the mouth. Using a tongue scraper to gently glide over your tongue helps to remove bacteria that settle between the papillae (the tiny bumps along the tongue).
#4 – Avoid Tobacco Usage
Nothing positive comes from chewing or smoking tobacco. Instead, it increases the risk of developing a host of health problems, including heart and gum disease. Thus, it’s best to avoid such products all together.
#5 – Visit a Dentist Regularly
Your dentist is your prime ally in your quest for excellent oral health that contributes to a fully functional heart. When you visit for preventive care, a thorough cleaning and examination will be provided to remove plaque and tartar, and to identify any issues that could jeopardize your oral and cardiovascular health.
With these simple tips in tow, all that’s left to do is execute. Every step you take will contribute to maintaining a strong heart, teeth and gums!
About the Author
Dr. Jeffrey Skupny earned his dental degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. He has received additional postgraduate training at Spear Education, and he maintains membership with the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Skupny promotes excellent heart health by providing attentive and comprehensive dental care at Island Coast Dentistry, and he can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through his website.