Since childhood, we have been taught to brush our teeth twice a day. We were taught in schools that brushing your teeth twice a day keeps the gums strong and also, maintains the teeth quality by keeping it away from germs, diseases, and any other food products that will harm the enamel.
Is oral health related to heart health?
However, it is a very rare known fact that brushing teeth that are maintaining your oral health secretly helps in reducing the risk associated with contracting cardiovascular disease. There have been many studies that have found that there is a link between heart diseases and periodontal diseases.
For those of you who don’t know, periodontal disease is associated with a condition that is marked by gum infections, tooth damage, as well as, gum inflammations. Also, oral health is important for the healthy functioning of your heart. Some of the other reasons are stated below:
- If there is an increase in the poor dental health of an individual, there is a rise in the risk of a bacterial infection on the way in the bloodstream. This does not have a good effect on the heart valves. Also, you should note that you have undergone heart surgery and have artificial heart valves, oral health is more than important for you.
- If you are experiencing tooth loss patterns, the idea of the same is closely related to coronary artery disease.
- Diabetes and cardiovascular diseases have a long-lost connection. The evidence for the same lies in the fact that anyone who has a heart problem usually suffers from diabetes and that is a result of any periodontal treatment.
Here are some facts for you to know.
There was research conducted in 2018 in which as many as 65,000 cardiovascular events inclusive of a heart attack were covered. The research concluded and the following points were highlighted.
- There was found to be a moderate correlation between tooth loss and the development of heart disease.
- However, smoking leading to the connection between tooth loss and contracting cardiovascular disease was a total miss.
The research further concluded that the development of bacteria in the mouth results in the development of pancreatic cancer.
How to maintain oral health
However, you should not mistake yourself with the fact that if you begin maintaining your oral health, your heart disease and other related issues will dissolve automatically. So, here are a few tips that will help you maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
- Brush your teeth in the morning and before going to bed at night. Try using an electric toothbrush for the best cleaning.
- Try and make sure that you are flossing daily
- Make sure to be regular with your dentist. Opt for regular checkups and schedule cleaning appointments on prior requirements.
Conclusion
Heart disease is not a small thing and hence, should not be considered lightly. It is always better to be hands-on and in regular updates with your doctor. Opt for a healthy and better lifestyle and keep away from things that bring the risk of heart disease with them like smoking.
