If you’re like most people, you associate February with flowers, chocolates, and heart-shaped candies. However, that’s not the only heart you should be thinking about! February is also American Heart Month, which means that now is the perfect time to learn about keeping your heart healthy. One easy way to do that is by preventing gum disease, which has been directly linked to cardiovascular issues. Here’s what you need to know about how caring for your smile can benefit your heart health.
What Exactly Is Gum Disease?
Also called periodontal disease, gum disease is an infection in the gums and other tissues that support the teeth. In its early stage, known as gingivitis, you may not even notice that you have it. Gingivitis typically only presents mild symptoms, such as:
- Gums that appear swollen or red
- Tender or sore gums
- Minor discomfort when chewing
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums
If gingivitis is allowed to progress to its second stage (periodontitis), your smile could be permanently damaged. At this point, bacteria attack the jawbone that keeps your teeth in place. Your teeth may shift, loosen, or even fall out!
The Connection Between Gum Disease & Heart Health
Tooth loss isn’t the only complication of gum disease. Multiple studies have confirmed that having gum disease increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
The prevailing theory of this connection involves inflammation. When too many bacteria accumulate in the mouth, the gums become inflamed. Then, a chain reaction of inflammation is sent throughout the body, eventually leading to the heart.
That’s why if you want to look after the health of your heart, you should do your utmost to prevent gum disease.
Tips for Preventing Gum Disease
Avoiding gum disease doesn’t involve doing anything you shouldn’t already be doing to keep your smile healthy. Make sure to do the following to prevent the buildup of bacteria and plaque:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Pay close attention to the area where your teeth meet your gums.
- Floss at least once a day, ideally right before bed.
- Visit your dentist twice a year for routine checkups and cleanings. They can often detect early signs of gum disease before you’re even aware that you have it, making treatment easier and more likely to be successful.
- Quit using tobacco products. They’re harmful to not just your smile, but your overall health too.
Keeping your heart healthy starts with taking good care of your smile. If you don’t have your next dental checkup scheduled, what better time to do so than during American Heart Month?
About the Practice
At Crovatto & Edwards Family Dentistry, Dr. Steven Crovatto and Dr. Megan Edwards prioritize the comfort of our patients in the Orange Park, FL area. Their combined expertise and dedication to providing top-notch dental care helps each and every patient have a personalized, high-quality experience at our office. We’re happy to provide guidance for preventing gum disease as well as comfortable treatments for patients who have it. If you’re interested in keeping your smile and your heart healthy, contact us via our website or by calling (904) 272-0800.