For decades, researchers have probed the link between oral disease and cardiovascular health. People with gum disease (gingivitis) or periodontal disease (periodontitis) display up to three times the risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiovascular issues. According to Dr. Hatice Hasturk of the Harvard-affiliated Forsyth Institute “Periodontal disease increases the body’s burden of inflammation.” Most people do not make the immediate connection between bleeding gums and increased heart problems but that is exactly what the research is pointing to.
The link has not yet been proven that treating gum disease will prevent cardiovascular disease but the common thread is convincing enough dentists (and many doctors) to believe it’s yet another reason to be proactive about preventive care in the first place.
GUM DISEASE SYMPTOMS
Warning signs of early oral disease and cardiovascular health include the following:
- Bad breath
- Swollen or tender gums
- Red, bleeding gums
- Plaque within the gum line
- Pus in teeth and gums
- Loose teeth
- Loose dental appliances
That said, millions of people don’t realize they have this serious dental condition that can potentially lead to major medial issues if not treated.
At the end of the day
Daily toothbrushing and flossing can prevent and even reverse early stages of gum disease, known as gingivitis. If your dentist or hygienist says you have gingivitis, please don’t be afraid ask for a quick brushing and flossing demonstration to make sure you’re doing both correctly. The reality is that less than 1/3 of people floss daily and many people don’t spend enough time or care when brushing (the recommended duration is two minutes). If you find flossing to be difficult, you can also incorporate a waterpik into your daily activity to reduce the inflammation and bacteria.
With proper dental hygiene at home and caring, professional support from your family dentist, your oral hygiene should remain healthy. Keeping a good dental regimen will reduce and possibly eliminate gum diseases and dental cavities.
Remember to:
- Brush your teeth at least twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss your teeth at least once daily
- See your dentist regularly or immediately if a problem occurs
- Eat well and maintain a good diet to protect your dental health.
There are tons of tips and tricks and techniques that we can work on with you if you feel like you are struggling in this area. Just give us a call or talk to us at you next cleaning appointment, your heart will thank you.
Visit Dr. Nolan Jangaard, the leading family dentist in Irvine, and put your dental health worries to rest. At Caring Family Dentistry Irvine, we take care of your oral health and help you overcome dental anxiety so you can get the treatment you need. Contact us today at (949) 551-2024 or fill out our contact form for your dental appointment or to know more about services.
