You already know that brushing, flossing, and regular dentist visits help maintain a bright, healthy smile. But did you know that your oral hygiene might also impact the health of your heart? Today, the friendly team from Implant Center of Maui in Kahului, HI, will explain how your mouth and heart are probably more connected than you think.

Your Heart & Oral Hygiene Explained 

Numerous studies have revealed a link between periodontal disease, or disease of your gums, and cardiovascular disease. While correlation doesn’t necessarily prove causation, it’s clear that both gum disease and cardiovascular disease involve the inflammation of tissue in the mouth and heart, respectively. Could this inflammation spread from one organ to the other? Possibly; experts aren’t entirely sure yet. However, evidence does certainly point in that direction; studies show that treating gum disease by removing plaque improves the health of diseased blood vessels.

Gum disease is also linked to heart conditions, including diabetes and stroke. For that reason, many medical professionals believe that oral hygiene benefits your overall health and wellness. That means if you have gum disease or other oral issues, you should treat them not only for the sake of your smile, but for your whole body! Fortunately, in its earliest stage, gum disease is common and treatable. Your dentist will use a procedure called scaling and root planning to clean the gums and remove tartar. If untreated, it may escalate to periodontal disease, which is the stage of gum disease associated with infection, tooth loss and jaw disintegration. Afterward, you will need to maintain a healthy diet, visit the dentist regularly, and brush and floss daily to avoid re-infection. 

For a healthy smile and heart, visit the expert periodontist at Implant Center of Maui. To learn more about the cosmetic and preventative dentistry, call today at (808) 877-3606 or visit the practice online.