Is There A Link Between Oral And Heart Health?
At Vargas Dental Associates, we are passionate about our patients receiving regular oral hygiene examinations. During these appointments, we are able to spot any problem areas in the mouth and recommend immediate treatment. Unfortunately, when problems with your oral health, such as gum disease, are left to progress and worsen, your teeth and mouth are not the only areas of your body that can be affected. One area of your body in particular that can be negatively affected by oral health issues is your heart.
Gum Disease and Your Heart
Gum disease is a common condition that affects more than half of American adults. When gum disease is not treated, it can lead to serious complications with your oral health, such as tooth loss. That is not the only problem patients may experience; the increased levels of bacteria in the mouth can begin to travel in the bloodstream, affecting the tissues surrounding the heart. The tissues and arteries can become inflamed by bacteria, affecting how the heart functions. Patients are more likely to experience issues such as coronary artery disease and stroke. Gum disease can also cause an increase in blood pressure and cause blood pressure medications to not work effectively.
What Can Be Done to Maintain Oral Health?
The easiest way to ensure you have excellent oral health is to take care of your teeth and gums between appointments. To avoid oral health complications, such as gum disease, it is important to brush and floss your teeth as recommended. In fact, the American Heart Association suggests that you can help lower the risk of developing certain cardiovascular diseases by properly brushing your teeth for two minutes per day. In addition to caring for your teeth at home, it is vital to visit our office regularly for cleanings and examinations. Be sure to schedule any recommended treatments in a timely manner.
With the end of the year fast approaching, there is no time like the present to schedule an oral hygiene examination if you have not visited our office within the past six months. Be sure to contact our office, which is located in Bowie, MD, and our team will be more than happy to schedule an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
