Keeping A Healthy Heart Starts with Gum Health—Here’s How

February is Heart Health Month, a time to learn how best to improve your cardiovascular wellness. Trying the latest diet trends, performing popular workout routines, or even starting Tai Chi—everything to maintain a strong heart. Did you know your gum health is just as important for this month’s goals? Read on to learn how your gum line is the beginning of keeping a healthy heart!

Gum Disease & Heart Health

The most important reason for cleaning your gums is to prevent gum disease—a bacterial infection that is caused by plaque buildup. In the beginning, this causes gingivitis, but if it’s untreated it can worsen into periodontitis. At this time, the bacteria are tough enough to damage or destroy the connective tissues that help hold your teeth in place.

Furthermore, these hazardous bacteria can escape into your bloodstream and travel to other parts of your body, like the heart. Since these bacteria cause inflammation, if they reach into the valves or inner linings of your heat, you’ll be at a much higher risk of severe issues such as heart attacks and strokes.

Are There Ways to Avoid Plaque Buildup?

To keep yourself safe from gum disease, you simply have to avoid plaque buildup. These methods include:

• Brushing Twice a Day: While you brush for two minutes, pay extra attention to your gum line.
• Flossing Once a Day: Your brush is effective for most of your teeth’s surface, but not all of it. Combine this with flossing, which can reach between the teeth for plaque removal.
• Seeing Your Dentist Twice a Year: They can thoroughly clean your teeth, as well as identify and treat developing issues before they become bigger problems.
• Cutting Out Tobacco Use: It’s well-known that smoking or chewing tobacco isn’t good for either your dental or overall health. Not only will you prevent gum disease by avoiding these products, you’ll also reduce your risk of oral cancer.
• Understanding Your Risk: Gum disease can also be affected by personal conditions like age, diet, and genetics. If you’re aware of certain risk factors, it’s best to discuss them with your dentist so you can have a better prevention plan.

By implementing these few steps, you can take charge of your gum and heart health simultaneously! Talk to your dentist if you have any concerns, that way you can be on top of your goals this month.

About the Author

Dr. Heliben Desai earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. As an honored member of the Texas and American Dental Associations, she regularly takes continuing education courses to stay up to date with the latest dental advancements. With a large collection of treatments, she can provide your checkup and cleaning, as well as gum therapy to help prevent plaque buildup. If you want to know more about the importance of gum health, visit her website or call (469) 346-8828.