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 Albuquerque, NM

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 Roderick A. Garcia, DMD PC at 505-634-5029 for an appointment in our Albuquerque office.

Recent Posts

A General Dentist Discusses The Benefits Of Tooth Straightening

In recent years, more patients have been asking general dentist professionals about straighter teeth. Orthodontic treatment has come a long way in the last decades. Patients may think that traditional braces are the only option, but clear aligners and appliance therapy are also available now. When having this conversation, it is important that patients discuss…

When You Need A Mouthguard From A General Dentist

A general dentist may recommend a mouthguard to protect the teeth from damage that can occur from teeth grinding, sports injuries, or physically strenuous jobs. Grinding can be difficult to treat, but a patient can be helped by a thin mouthguard on the upper or lower teeth to prevent friction from occurring. Other types of…

The Benefits Of Having A General Dentist

A general dentist is the dental equivalent of a primary care physician. A general dental professional is the person dental patients can go to for routine preventative care and diagnosis of any oral health problems. There are multiple benefits to establishing a relationship with a general dentist.Maintaining oral health is important for both the health…

Dr. Garcia

Share
Published by
Dr. Garcia

Recent Posts

3 Tips for Dental Implant Aftercare

Dental implants are the most stable dental restorations you can get. The invasive procedure will…

7 days ago

Orthodontics: Teeth-Straightening Options From a General Dentist

If you are exploring teeth straightening options, start by asking your general dentist what works…

1 week ago

What to Expect During the Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants can bring back stability and aesthetic value to your mouth. Losing at least…

2 weeks ago

Smile Makeover With Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are ideal for patients who want a long-term solution to achieving a brighter…

3 weeks ago

Understanding the Dental Implant Process

Dental implants replace missing teeth and help with chewing, speaking, and smiling. They can consist…

3 weeks ago

What You Need to Know About Dental Implants

As a patient considering dental implants, there are some important things that you need to…

1 month ago