We all know what to do (and what not to do) to prevent heart disease. Don't overeat salty or fatty foods. Get exercise and rest. Eat your vegetables. Take medications to prevent the worsening of an existing condition. But did you know that your oral health may also affect your risk of heart disease?
Studies show that regular brushing—a vital part of any oral care routine—may help to prevent heart disease.
Here's how it works.
What Happens During a Heart Attack?
The heart requires its own constant supply of oxygen and nutrients. If one of the two large, branching coronary arteries delivering oxygenated blood to the heart muscle becomes blocked, a portion of the heart is starved of oxygen. This is a condition called “cardiac ischemia.”
If cardiac ischemia lasts too long, the starved heart tissue dies. This is otherwise known as a heart attack.
The Possible Link Between Dental Plaque and Heart Disease
Studies are beginning to show that oral hygiene and gum disease may be related to serious conditions like heart disease. According to the , people with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to have coronary artery disease (also called heart disease).
Another study found that oral health problems, including gum disease, cavities, and missing teeth, were good at predicting heart disease. While we can’t prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship, there does appear to be a correlation between .
How to Prevent Dental Plaque and Tartar Buildup
Here’s the good news. You can easily from building up on your teeth. It’s also within your power to prevent gum disease. All you have to do is maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine.
Our dentists recommend that you brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes at a time. You should also be flossing your teeth once a day. That way, you’ll be able to remove plaque and food particles hiding between teeth.
If we still find plaque and tartar buildup during your next appointment, we may recommend adding a fluoride mouth rinse to your routine. Fluoride helps to strengthen your tooth enamel, increasing its resistance to acid attacks from plaque.
It’s important that you see one of our dentists at least every 6 months for an oral examination and teeth cleaning. While you can remove plaque at home, only a dental professional will be able to remove tartar from your teeth and gums.
During your appointment, we’ll also examine your mouth and possibly take X-rays. That way, we’ll be able to catch small oral health issues before they have a chance to develop.
So, listen to the advice of dentists everywhere. Give your heart a break, brush your teeth, and floss daily. Also, avoid acidic and sugary foods. The more you take care of your oral health, the more the rest of your body will benefit.
Request an Appointment with Us
We’re changing the world one smile at a time! Are you ready to take the next step?
Dr. Kelly Giera is a family dentist in Troy, MI, who recognizes the importance of preventive care. To request an appointment, please feel free to call Mosaic Dental at (248) 528-2270. We hope to hear from you soon!
This blog post has been updated.
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