A general dentist often focuses on the importance of oral hygiene and how it can help the overall health of patients. There are many patients who are unaware of the impact that oral health can have on the heart’s health. The following explains how poor oral hygiene may be connected to the development of heart issues.
Oral health has been shown to have an effect on a patient’s heart health. Poor oral hygiene can result in gum disease. In some cases, bacteria and germs from the mouth spread through the bloodstream and to other parts of the body; this can cause serious inflammation and bacterial infections. The inflammation may contribute to the development of many heart conditions. A bacterial infection in the bloodstream can be harmful to the heart valves and may be dangerous for those who have artificial heart valves.
Periodontal disease is an infection that develops in the gum tissues and jawbone. The condition is caused by plaque that builds up on the teeth and may lead to tooth loss. It is a common disease and can often remain undetected for long periods of time as some dental patients do not notice any of the typical signs of gum inflammation.
Moderate and severe gum disease have been linked to numerous cardiovascular conditions. Patients with periodontal disease are more at risk to develop atherosclerosis, a condition that causes a narrowing and hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis puts patients at a higher chance of suffering from a heart attack or stroke. Endocarditis, an infection of the heart’s lining that can cause life-threatening damage, has also been connected to gum disease.
Patients should be aware of the symptoms of periodontal disease and visit a general dentist as soon as possible if they develop any of the following warning signs:
Preventing the development of gum disease is crucial. Proper oral hygiene, which includes brushing twice a day and flossing daily, is one of the easiest ways to avoid periodontal disease. Patients should also see a general dentist twice a year for routine cleanings and examinations to ensure the teeth and gums are in optimal health. Taking proper care of the teeth may reduce the risk of developing heart disease for many patients.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Oral Health in New York, NY
Research shows a patient’s oral health can have a connection to heart health. Gum disease may lead to the possibility of heart disease. It is vitally important for patients to practice proper oral hygiene habits to aid in the prevention of serious heart conditions. Routine visits to a general dentist can help patients protect their overall health as well as maintain a beautiful and healthy smile.
Request an appointment or call MH Dental NY at 646-344-1449 for an appointment in our New York office.
Looking for information on general dentistry preventive care? Many people think that routine appointments with a dentist are just for cleanings and examinations, however, that is far from the truth. These routine appointments can also be used for preventive care. Preventive care helps to keep the patient's teeth and gums in good oral health, by…
Making a strong connection with a general dentist as part of an overall team of health care providers can lead to better patient compliance and satisfaction. Patients looking for a new dentist should consider several factors before committing to one. Although shopping around for a general dentist may seem initially burdensome, in the long run…
There is no need to fear if your general dentist has recommended root canal treatment. This dental procedure is performed on millions of patients every year and is similar to a routine filling. It is a beneficial procedure that saves a tooth that has become infected or damaged. Many patients wonder if the tooth is…
