February is National Heart Health Month! You may know about heart healthy foods, working out, or other ways to remain in shape, but did you know that your gums can affect your cardiovascular health? In fact, an increasing number of studies have shown a direct link between the condition of your gums and the health of your heart. Keep reading to learn more about this surprising connection and how seeing your dentist in Tullahoma can help.
How Can Your Gums Affect Your Heart?
It may seem shocking, but the health of your gums can have a direct impact on your heart. This can occur because of a common dental problem that affects millions of people, gum disease. An inflammation and infection of the gums, this disease can lead to numerous oral health problems, but now studies show that it can affect your oral health. Gum disease can raise your risk of cardiovascular problems like heart attacks by 20%. That’s because your body is a system and everything in it is connected. The inflammation that gum disease causes can occur in other parts of the body like the arteries, increasing the possibility of cardiovascular issues.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Thankfully, gum disease can be prevented and treated, but it’s important to be able to recognize these common signs and symptoms:
- Puffy or sensitive gum tissue
- Tender gums
- Red or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Teeth that appear longer
- Sores in the mouth
- Changes in bite
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your dentist for periodontal therapy in Tullahoma as soon as possible.
How Can You Protect Your Gums?
You can give yourself the best chance at a healthy heart by practicing good gum care. This all starts with a thorough at-home oral healthcare routine. Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day, making sure to angle your brush at 45-degrees on the gumline to clean away any plaque and debris. You should also floss to remove any lingering food or bacteria from in between your teeth. For an extra layer of cleaning, you can add mouthwash to your routine because it can reach areas that your brush and floss couldn’t. Lastly, it’s vital that you visit your dentist for routine checkups. Gum disease can often occur without any symptoms, so these visits allow your dentist to catch the problem early before it becomes too severe.
Are you ready to celebrate National Heart Health Month year-round? Remember to watch out for the symptoms of gum disease and practice a good dental routine for a healthy smile!
Meet the Dentist
Dr. John E. Petty is an experienced dentist who offers periodontal therapy to keep your gums clean and healthy. He provides thorough checkups to ensure that any infection is caught as early as possible. If you have questions or want to set an appointment, Dr. Petty can be reached through his website or by phone at (931) 454-9499.