You’ve surely heard that it’s important to practice proper oral hygiene and to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings, but you may not be aware of how impactful this can be on your total wellness. There is evidence of a connection between your dental and heart health. So that you can enjoy strong teeth, gums and cardiovascular function, a dentist in Dublin provides some valuable information that you don’t want to overlook.
The Connection Between Oral and Heart Health
Inside your mouth, there are thousands of different types of bacteria present. When you eat and drink, any debris left behind becomes food for the microorganisms, and as they feed, caustic fluids are released that can mix with your saliva to form plaque. Unaddressed, the clear-sticky substance can bore holes into your enamel (the hard-outer layer of your teeth). The plaque can also begin to seep beneath the gum line to cause germ pockets to form, which is considered as the first stage of periodontal (gum) disease.
This can potentially pose more than just an oral health problem, as the infected and inflamed blood that permeates the gums eventually travels to other parts of the body. The glue-like plaque can cause a traffic jam in your arteries, which can lead to life-threatening issues like heart disease and cardiac arrest. Thus, when you take steps to fortify your oral health, it’s a big deal!
How to Protect Yourself
When it comes to your oral and heart health, you don’t have to be a helpless bystander. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself:
- Practice consistent and effective oral hygiene, which should include brushing and flossing your teeth a minimum of two times a day.
- Pay close attention to how much sugar you consume, since oral bacteria rely on it for sustenance.
- Make it a habit to drink at least a glass of water after eating a meal. This will help to flush your mouth of some of the leftover debris.
Partnering with a Local Dentist
In addition to making the appropriate lifestyle changes, it’s super beneficial to visit a dentist at least semi-annually for checkups and cleanings. Not only will these appointments provide you with a thorough examination to identify any budding problems, but they’ll also leave your teeth cleaner.
At the end of the day, the reality is that the different systems of your body function in a symbiotic fashion. Thus, if there is an issue in one area, it can affect the whole. However, by being proactive about your oral health, you can expect holistic benefits and a much happier life!
About the Author
Dr. Eric Buck is a graduate of The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. An experienced and knowledgeable professional, he provides comprehensive and compassionate care. Dr. Buck promotes heart health by offering preventive dentistry at Distinctive Smiles, and he can be reached for more information through his website.