A Healthy Heart Starts with Your Smile

February is American Heart Month, which raises awareness of factors contributing to cardiovascular disease and what you can do to lower your risk. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. An unhealthy lifestyle is a common contributor to heart disease, but did you know that your gum health can also increase your risk? Your oral and general health are connected. Here’s how keeping your gums healthy can lower your risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Heart Disease and Gum Health

Gum disease is a common cause of tooth loss, despite being preventable. It is caused by plaque and tartar buildup from poor oral hygiene habits. The buildup harbors harmful bacteria that irritate and inflame the gum tissue. With no treatment, it can destroy the supporting structures of your teeth. They can loosen and fall out. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 50% of adults over the age of 35 have a form of gum disease.

Harvard Medical School reports that patients with advanced gum disease are 2-3 times as likely to suffer a cardiac event, including heart attacks and strokes. Bacteria from the infection may enter your bloodstream. As it circulates throughout your body, it will cause an inflammatory response, which can narrow your arteries. Plaque can also build up in your arteries, making it even more difficult for your heart to pump blood effectively.

How to Keep Your Gums Healthy

Although heart disease and gum disease are both common, you can significantly reduce your risk by following a few tips:

• Brush Your Teeth After Every Meal: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice daily. Clean all surfaces of your teeth and tongue for 2 minutes. 
• Floss Your Teeth Every Day: Use high-quality floss to clean between each tooth daily to remove food residue and plaque your toothbrush can’t reach. Brushing alone can leave up to 40% of your teeth surfaces uncleaned. 
• Use an Antiseptic Mouthwash: Add an antiseptic mouthwash to your daily oral hygiene routine. It will kill any harmful bacteria lingering in your mouth.
• Don’t Smoke: Tobacco increases your risk of both gum disease and heart disease.
• Visit Your Dentist: Schedule a cleaning and checkup with your dentist every 6 months. They’ll keep your mouth healthy to support your overall wellness.

Don’t ignore red, swollen, or bleeding gums. Your dentist can provide the quick care you need to stop the infection in its tracks.

About Dr. Josh Culver

Dr. Culver earned his dental degree at the West Virginia University School of Dentistry and he regularly pursues continuing education in various specialties, like dental implants, laser dentistry, and sedation. He is affiliated with many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (412) 504-7156.