The human body is intricately interconnected. Therefore, an issue in one part can lead to problems in various other parts of the body. For example, your mouth and heart are linked. Taking proper care of your mouth goes a long way toward preventing heart health issues. Read on to learn how visiting a dentist near you impacts the health of your heart.
How Are teeth & Heart Disease Linked?
Your mouth contains bacteria that aid in the breakdown of food. When you do not regularly clean your teeth, the bacteria combine with food debris to form plaque. Neglecting your oral hygiene causes the film to accumulate.
The bacteria in plaque spread to the gum line, causing gum disease. Your gums become inflamed, red, swollen, tender, and bleed easily. Untreated gum disease causes significant damage to the gum tissues and ligaments. As a result, the bacteria easily spread to the bloodstream spreading the inflammation of blood vessels.
With time, the inflammation spreads to the heart and other body parts, resulting in chronic inflammatory diseases. For example, they cause endocarditis and cardiovascular disease. Endocarditis is an infection inside the lining of the heart valves and chambers. Cardiovascular diseases are disorders of the heart and blood vessels. Both diseases can be fatal if untreated.
Symptoms and Signs
Patients with gum disease are at a high risk of heart and cardiovascular diseases. So, the dentist in Surrey will examine your mouth for symptoms of gum disease. The evaluation will help them determine if you have heart problems. If you do, they will advise you to get a diagnosis and treatment from your healthcare provider. You can also do a self-exam by looking at your gums through the mirror.
Some warning signs and symptoms of gum disease include:
- Red, swollen, and tender gums
- Pus from the gums
- Gums that bleed when eating, brushing, flossing, or
- Loose or mobile teeth
- Persistent bad breath and taste in the mouth
- Gum recession, whereby teeth appear as if they have pulled away from the teeth
Tips for Good Oral and Heart Health
Preventing issues that affect the health of your heart and mouth is very important. It will save you invasive, expensive, and time-consuming treatments. You can prevent heart health issues by following these tips.
- Clean your mouth properly
Brushing and flossing your teeth properly each day will prevent plaque formation. As a result, you will avoid gum disease and possible heart diseases. So, brush your teeth twice a day using the right toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss properly once daily and use mouthwash regularly for a cleaner, healthier mouth. Also, attend regular tooth cleanings at the dental clinic.
- Quit smoking or using tobacco products
Tobacco use causes tooth decay, heart disease, and gingivitis. It has nicotine and tar, which damage your blood vessels, leading to increased heart attack and stroke risks. They also make you prone to tooth cavities and gum inflammation and inhibit healing in your mouth. So, you should quit using tobacco if you want a healthy heart and mouth.
- Check what you eat
Most foods and drinks that cause heart disease also cause oral health issues. For example, sugary foods, drinks, and alcohol are bad for your mouth and heart. Therefore, you should avoid them. Instead, take foods and drinks suitable for both.
- Visit the dentist regularly
A dentist can detect problems with your heart by examining your mouth during dental exams. Once your dentist notices any issues, they will refer you to your doctor for treatment. In addition, they will help you be proactive about your oral health. The dentist in Surrey can help you achieve and maintain a healthy mouth for a healthy heart.
For instance, they will help you prevent gum disease. If you have gum disease, they will treat it before it damages your gum tissues and spreads to the blood. The dentist also helps diabetic patients maintain healthy blood pressure by caring for their mouths. Consequently, they will avoid some cardiovascular diseases.
Do you love your heart and want to keep it healthy? One of the ways you can do that is by getting appropriate oral healthcare. Book an appointment at Dental zone for personalized treatments resulting in a healthy mouth and heart. We will also ensure you attain an attractive smile.