Patient Portal 
February is finally here! While you are probably preparing for a date with your special someone this coming Valentine’s Day, there is another reason that you should be thinking about your heart at this time of year. February is Heart Health Month! One of the many ways you can work to keep your heart healthy is by maintaining your oral health. The two are related more than you may think. Read on to learn about how you can keep your cardiovascular health in check.
How Are Heart and Dental Health Related?
Gum disease is a common issue that numerous people face all throughout the country. In fact, approximately half of adults over the age of 30 are affected by gum disease at one severity or another. Gum disease is an infection of the tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth. When left untreated, you could end up with irreversible issues, including gum recession, loose teeth, tooth loss, and jawbone deterioration.
Unfortunately, gum disease is not simply limited to the oral cavity. In fact, people who have gum disease are more likely to experience other health problems, including diabetes and heart disease. It isn’t perfectly clear what the connection is between gum disease and heart disease, but it’s known that a person with gum disease is three times more likely to experience a heart attack, stroke, or another serious cardiovascular event.
How Can You Prevent Gum Disease?
As common as gum disease is, it’s easily preventable by taking all the right steps:
- Brush Twice Daily: To remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and along the gumline, you should brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste.
- Floss Every Day: Brushing isn’t enough by itself. There are some areas of the mouth where your toothbrush can’t reach. It is important to use dental floss every day to clear away plaque and bacteria from between the teeth and beneath the gumline.
- Don’t Smoke: Smoking doubles your risk of developing gum disease, and it’s linked to oral cancer. Talk to your doctor, friends, and family about the best ways that you can give up smoking for good.
- See Your Dentist: You should see your dentist twice a year for regular cleanings and checkups. They will be able to determine if you would benefit from gum disease therapy.
- Know Your Risk: There are many factors that contribute to your probability of developing gum disease. Keep your age, genetics, and diet in mind.
By using the tips listed above, you can prevent the onset of gum disease and keep your heart strong!
About the Author
Dr. Girish Sandadi earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and is committed to taking continuing education courses to expand his clinical knowledge and skillset. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association and Texas Dental Association. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Dallas, visit his website or call (214) 528-9990.