How Good Oral Health Can Improve Heart Health

A general dentist often focuses on the importance of oral hygiene and how it can help the overall health of patients. There are many patients who are unaware of the impact that oral health can have on the heart’s health. The following explains how poor oral hygiene may be connected to the development of heart issues.

The connection between oral and heart health

Oral health has been shown to have an effect on a patient’s heart health. Poor oral hygiene can result in gum disease. In some cases, bacteria and germs from the mouth spread through the bloodstream and to other parts of the body; this can cause serious inflammation and bacterial infections. The inflammation may contribute to the development of many heart conditions. A bacterial infection in the bloodstream can be harmful to the heart valves and may be dangerous for those who have artificial heart valves.

Gum disease’s role in heart disease

Periodontal disease is an infection that develops in the gum tissues and jawbone. The condition is caused by plaque that builds up on the teeth and may lead to tooth loss. It is a common disease and can often remain undetected for long periods of time as some dental patients do not notice any of the typical signs of gum inflammation.

Moderate and severe gum disease have been linked to numerous cardiovascular conditions. Patients with periodontal disease are more at risk to develop atherosclerosis, a condition that causes a narrowing and hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis puts patients at a higher chance of suffering from a heart attack or stroke. Endocarditis, an infection of the heart’s lining that can cause life-threatening damage, has also been connected to gum disease.

Symptoms

Patients should be aware of the symptoms of periodontal disease and visit a general dentist as soon as possible if they develop any of the following warning signs:

  • Gums that bleed when brushing and flossing
  • Red, swollen, or sore gums
  • Bad breath
  • Pus around the gums
  • Gums that pull away from the teeth or make the teeth appear longer
  • Loose teeth

Prevention

Preventing the development of gum disease is crucial. Proper oral hygiene, which includes brushing twice a day and flossing daily, is one of the easiest ways to avoid periodontal disease. Patients should also see a general dentist twice a year for routine cleanings and examinations to ensure the teeth and gums are in optimal health. Taking proper care of the teeth may reduce the risk of developing heart disease for many patients.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Oral Health in Miami, FL

Conclusion

Research shows a patient’s oral health can have a connection to heart health. Gum disease may lead to the possibility of heart disease. It is vitally important for patients to practice proper oral hygiene habits to aid in the prevention of serious heart conditions. Routine visits to a general dentist can help patients protect their overall health as well as maintain a beautiful and healthy smile.

Request an appointment or call Relax and Smile Dental Care at 305-740-1444 for an appointment in our Miami office.

Related Posts

Gum Disease Treatment From A General Dentist

A general dentist may spot signs of gum disease during a six-month checkup. Fortunately, these dental care providers can diagnose and treat gum disease of various severity levels. Whether they recommend deep cleaning or periodontal surgery, a dentist can help patients restore oral health and relieve symptoms.Gum disease, or periodontitis, is common but preventable. But…

How A General Dentist Can Repair Broken Teeth

General dentists are the professionals individuals see for preventative dental care and their biannual checkups. However, they can also help with sudden dental needs, such as treating tooth pain or repairing broken teeth. Let us look at the causes of broken teeth, their types, and how we can help.There are various types of broken teeth,…

Why You Should See A General Dentist Every Six Months

A trip to the dentist every six months can go a long way toward protecting your oral health. General dentists can perform an oral exam, catching any oral health issues early on. They will also remove tartar buildup during a professional teeth cleaning to preserve the teeth and gums. Explore why you should schedule an…

Relax and Smile Dental Care

Share
Published by
Relax and Smile Dental Care

Recent Posts

Gum Disease Treatment From a General Dentist

A general dentist may spot signs of gum disease during a six-month checkup. Fortunately, these…

3 days ago

Can Dental Implants Replace Multiple Teeth?

Getting dental implants is a popular way to replace missing teeth. These oral prosthetics replace…

1 week ago

How a General Dentist Can Repair Broken Teeth

General dentists are the professionals individuals see for preventative dental care and their biannual checkups.…

2 weeks ago

Why You Should See a General Dentist Every Six Months

A trip to the dentist every six months can go a long way toward protecting…

3 weeks ago

General Dentistry: What to Expect During a Teeth Cleaning

Curious about what happens during a teeth cleaning at a general dentistry office? Read on…

3 weeks ago

What to Ask Your General Dentist About the Dental Implant Process

Your general dentist may tell you that you may need a dental implant someday soon.…

4 weeks ago