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 Saratoga Springs, NY

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 My Saratoga Dentist PLLC at 518-675-3094 for an appointment in our Saratoga Springs office.

Recent Posts

General Dentistry: 4 Daily Habits For Your Oral Health Recommended By A Dentist

Practicing good oral hygiene is essential to keeping your teeth strong. From using the correct oral care products to seeking a general dentist regularly, there are plenty of steps you can take to achieve a healthy smile. Here are four daily habits that you should implement into your daily routine.Brushing your teeth is one of…

What A General Dentist Wants You To Know About Using Fluoride

Fluoride is a preventative measure that your general dentist uses to help protect your teeth between visits. It is also an ingredient in toothpaste that can give added protection. One of the most hotly debated topics surrounding toothpaste and tooth brushing is whether or not you should be using toothpaste that contains fluoride. Using toothpaste with…

Daily Toothbrushing Tips From A General Dentist

Your general dentist is here to provide some information about how to best take care of your teeth. Dental health and hygiene are essential to the overall health and wellness of your body. Without healthy teeth and gums, you will be unable to take in the nutrients and proteins necessary for your body to thrive…

Dr. Ryan Osinski

Share
Published by
Dr. Ryan Osinski

Recent Posts

What to Do When You Are Waiting for Emergency Dentistry

Emergency dentistry can provide immediate relief from the discomfort that you may be experiencing. While…

14 mins ago

Maintaining Oral Health After a Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are excellent options for restoring dental function and aesthetics in patients with missing…

1 day ago

How to Get Approved for Dental Implants

The dental implant process is lengthy and intricate. Therefore, patients must receive a thorough examination…

5 days ago

Visit an Emergency Dentistry Office if You Are Experiencing Gum Pain

Gum bleeding signifies that you must visit the emergency dentistry office immediately. The dentist will…

5 days ago

Can Emergency Dentistry Preserve a Displaced Tooth?

A good emergency dentistry professional can provide immediate treatment for your displaced tooth. This type…

7 days ago

Oral Conditions Your Dentist Looks for During a Dental Exam

This review discusses the various oral conditions that your dentist can check for during a…

1 week ago