February is the perfect month to think about your heart. Did you know that having good oral habits can assist with keeping your heart healthy, too? In fact, taking care of your teeth and gums can positively impact your overall well-being.
Here are a few interesting correlations between your oral care and your health.
DEFEND AGAINST HEART DISEASE: Research from the Mayo Clinic indicates that poor oral care can be linked to cardiovascular disease (heart disease). If a person has inflamed gums, the bacteria present in their mouth can travel through the arteries and get to the heart. A condition known as Atherosclerosis causes plaque to harden the walls of arteries, restricting proper blood flow. A condition called Endocarditis occurs when the inner lining of the heart is affected, thus becoming inflamed. These can lead to heart attack and stroke.
REDUCE RESPIRATORY SICKNESS: Consider the effects of regularly breathing in bacteria over a long period of time. Infections in the lungs have the capability of occuring, and in some cases leading to pneumonia, as stated by the Journal of Periodontology. But a clean mouth can be a great step in the right direction to minimizing bacteria growth.
WHOLE BODY BENEFITS: The positives of keeping good oral hygiene are numerous! By simply keeping a habit of brushing twice daily and flossing each day, you can enjoy fresh breath, strong teeth that will last late into your age, gum disease (Gingivitis) prevention, sparkling stain-free teeth, and drastically lower the chances of developing dementia. Additionally, it can save you money in the long run, too, because you can avoid costly medical/oral ailments. Be sure to visit your dentist biannually for cleanings, to ensure optimal oral health.
The Sunshine Children's Dentistry LOVES our patients! Your family is a blessing to everyone at our office. If you ever need to reach us, our phone number is 910.762.7736. Our office LOVES you with all our heart!
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