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You’re probably already aware of some of the more obvious consequences of not taking care of your teeth and gums, such as cavities. What you may not know is that your oral health and heart health are closely linked, and taking care of your teeth and gums will help you avoid developing serious conditions such as heart disease. James Julien, D.D.S., a dentist with more than 20 years of experience serving Kenai, AK, area, focuses on providing the preventive care his patients need to keep their whole bodies healthy.

How Can Poor Oral Health Lead to Heart Disease?

Gum disease — a chronic infection of the gums — has been linked to heart disease in recent years. Because our mouths are full of blood vessels that connect to the rest of the body, the bacteria that causes infection in the gums can easily travel through the blood stream. The bacteria can cause inflammation in other areas of the body, including the arteries and heart. This significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular or heart disease and experiencing a heart attack or stroke.

While there is no direct link between cavities and heart disease, patients with cavities are more likely to have gum disease. There’s also a risk that the bacteria from an untreated cavity can enter the blood stream, which can also cause serious health complications.

How to Protect Your Teeth, Gums, & Heart

How the Dentist Can Protect You From Heart DiseaseRegular dental care is one of the simplest ways to protect your teeth, gums, and heart. Being diligent in your at-home oral care routines is critical to maintaining your oral health. However, going to the dentist every six months for an exam and cleaning is just as important.

In addition to removing plaque and tartar, your dentist can monitor for signs of other serious concerns. Because your oral and physical health are interconnected, dentists can often spot early warning signs of life-threatening conditions such as heart disease before other symptoms become apparent.

If it’s been a while since your last dental checkup, contact family dentist James Julien, D.D.S., at (907) 283-4857 to schedule an appointment. Be sure to explore the practice website to learn more about their comprehensive services.

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