Since February is American Heart Association Month, what better time to learn about what you can do to prevent problems from developing in one of your body’s most vital organs? You might be surprised to learn that your oral health has a lot to do with your heart, especially your gums. If you’re wondering what kind of connection there is between this soft oral tissue and your body, let a dentist in Lawrenceville further explain.
How the Gums and Heart Connect
If gum disease is present within your mouth, you’ll want to receive treatment for it early on. Here’s why:
Also known as periodontal disease, this attack on the soft tissues of your mouth causes infection to set in, resulting in redness, inflammation, and bleeding. In the early stage (gingivitis), you and your dentist can work together to reverse symptoms through regular cleanings and good oral health habits practiced at home. However, if allowed to escalate, it can lead to periodontitis, which is a more aggressive form of gum disease that attacks the bone.
It is at this stage that you may begin to feel your teeth become loose. This can cause bone and tooth loss as well as problems with your overall health. As plaque and tartar spread beneath the gum line, the infection and inflammation enter your bloodstream and can affect your arteries. The result can be a heart attack or stroke.
What to Do to Ensure Healthy Gums
First, if you think you might have early signs of gum disease, make sure you contact your dentist as soon as possible. The earlier you can detect it, the better off your oral and overall health will be. If necessary, don’t be afraid to undergo periodontal therapy, as this will work to remove plaque and tartar, prevent reinfection, and encourage your gum tissue to reattach to your teeth.
However, if you are currently gum disease-free and want to keep it that way, here are a few things you can do:
- Maintain good oral hygiene. This means brushing twice a day for two minutes, flossing at least once a day, and rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash.
- Quit smoking, as this weakens your immune system and makes it harder to fight off infection.
- Eat a more well-balanced diet, incorporating nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, dairy, lean meats, and fruits and vegetables.
- Continue to see your dentist in Lawrenceville every six months for regular dental checkups and cleanings.
If you want to keep your gums and heart working at an optimal level, do what is necessary to prevent an attack on your soft oral tissues. The mouth and body are closely interconnected, so when in doubt, check with your dentist about ways you can improve your oral health and ultimately, your overall well-being.
About the Author
Dr. Bruce Carter completed his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Also, he attended the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry and finished the Cosmetic Dentistry Continuum Level II. Dr. Carter and his team at Transforming Smiles understand that maintaining good oral health isn’t always easy, so when gum disease is evident, it is important to take the right steps to prevent it from worsening and negatively impacting your overall health. With periodontal therapy, he can stop the progression of the disease and help you achieve healthier gum tissue. To learn more, contact us at (770) 995-7616.