Visiting the dentist may not be the first thing to come to mind when you think of heart health. Yet, it turns out oral wellness has more of an impact on cardiovascular health than most people think. Gum disease, in particular, is associated with heart disease, the condition which is responsible for 1 in 4 deaths in the United States. Discover more about the link, and what you can do to control both gum and heart health below.

How Oral Wellness Influences Heart Health

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, might seem on the surface as if it would remain isolated to the oral cavity. But studies continuously find patients with poor oral health are also more likely to experience serious cardiovascular issues, including heart attack and stroke, compared to people with healthy mouths.

The theory behind this connection is that bacteria from the mouth can make its way into the bloodstream when the gums are inflamed, which leads to chronic inflammation of the heart’s lining and subsequently, heart disease. Bacteria can also become lodged in the walls of the blood vessels, leading to clots which can also increase heart attack risk.

What You Can Do to Maintain a Healthy Mouth & Heart

The best approach to take when it comes to both gum and heart disease is a preventive one. In addition to maintaining heart health by getting ample exercise and eating well, this also means optimizing dental care. Brushing and flossing regularly are the pillars of strong home habits, but you should be visiting your dentist for regular cleanings, too.

If you have healthy gums, your dentist will likely recommend receiving cleanings at six-month intervals to keep disease-causing plaque at bay. On the other hand, patients who face a higher risk for periodontal disease, such as people with a family history, those who are taking certain medications, and anyone with gingivitis, may need to go for cleanings more frequently. Your dentist may also recommend additional preventive treatments, such as using a specially formulated mouthwash.

Whether you’re due for a dental cleaning or you’d like to discuss your gum disease risk, Dr. David K. Skeels can help. Offering a free initial consultation and exam for new patients, this dentist serves patients throughout Rochester, NY with quality oral care services to help them maintain a healthy smile both now and into the future. Browse through the office’s available services by visiting their website or call (585) 467-7000 to schedule your appointment.