In most cases, you can thank your biological parents for your eye color, your blood type and your height, but what about your straight and bright smile? Do you have a predisposition to problems like gum disease and cavities due to your genes?
Jagged 2 Gene
Genes do play a role in the shape, development and structure of your teeth. A research team at the University of Zurich studied mice and determined that the Jagged 2 gene is necessary for healthy teeth development. Without it, teeth crowns were malformed and enamel was lacking.
Tooth decay and gum disease
Despite following a healthy diet, implementing a good oral care routine, and regular dentist checkups, you may find that you are still plagued by cavities and gum problems. Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine identified the cause of your tooth decay and gum disease, or periodontitis, could be your genetics.
After studying hundreds of samples and dental records and publishing two papers, Dr. Alexandre Vieira, an assistant professor of oral biology, and his team, determined that tooth decay and gum disease can be influenced by individual variations in the gene beta defensin1 (DEFB1), which helps fight germs.
DID YOU KNOW?
If your mother or father can curl their tongue, chances are you can too thanks to your genetics. Also, if your grandparents and parents have lived to a ripe old age, you too have a higher chance of enjoying a long life.
Amelogenesis Imperfecta
In some cases, mutated genes can cause a malfunction of the protein in the enamel, the protective outer layer of the tooth. This can result in teeth that appear yellow, brown or grey, and teeth that break easily due to the lack of enamel protecting the teeth against cavity-causing germs.
According to the American National Institute of Health, approximately 14,000 people in the United States are affected by Amelogenesis Imperfecta.
Dentinogenesis Imperfecta
Affecting 1 in 6,000 to 8,000 people, this genetic disorder causes discoloration of teeth to a translucent blue-gray or yellow-brown color and weak teeth that are prone to breakages. Both baby (primary) teeth and adult teeth can be affected.
If you are concerned about your genes and your teeth, speak to your dentist and remember to protect teeth against decay by brushing twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste, use of anti-bacterial mouthwash and flossing daily.
When you think about the health of your mouth, you probably think about strong, clean teeth. Many people fail to think about the health of their gums, too; but the health and wellness of your gums is just as important to the overall health of your mouth as the health of your teeth. At Metro Dental Care, Dr. Norouzinia, a board-certified periodontist, helps Denver patients eliminate gum disease, and improve the health and aesthetics of their gums every day. If your dentist has recommended gum surgery to you, the health of your gums may be at risk. Continue reading to learn more about why gum surgery is needed, and what to expect.
If you’re looking for superior periodontal care in the Denver area, schedule a consultation with Dr. Mike Norouzinia! He is a board-certified periodontist, which means that he specializes in prevention, and treatment of periodontal disease, as well as the placement of dental implants. Call us today at 303.534.2626 to get started.
At-Risk Patients
Some patients are at a higher risk of needing gum surgery over others, because some patients have an increased risk for developing periodontal disease, or gum disease. Though not all gum surgery procedures treat periodontal disease, the majority do. The most common cause of periodontal disease is improper, infrequent brushing and flossing, or failure to receive routine dental cleanings. However, someone with one or more of the following risk factors can develop periodontal disease sooner (and develop a more aggressive infection) than other patients without risk factors. These include:
Age (nearly 70% of patients 65 and older have advanced periodontal disease)
Obesity
Frequent tobacco use
Certain medications, such as heart medicine
Existing health issues such as heart disease, diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis
Gum Surgery Procedures
The most common gum surgery is gingival flap surgery, and occurs in conjunction with a deep cleaning process for your teeth and gums after advanced periodontal disease has been diagnosed.
When you receive routine exams, you may remember part of the process where your dentist places a tool near each gum line of the tooth and announces a number. This is a measurement between the top of your gum line to where the gum connects to each tooth. In healthy patients, this number typically falls between one and three millimeters. For patients with periodontal “pockets” due to gum disease, this number is higher; that means the gums have begun to pull away from the tooth. Swift treatment through gingival flap surgery (or in some cases, scaling and root planing) helps to reverse the effects of periodontal disease. During this procedure, the gums are separated from the teeth so that your dentist can deep clean your teeth and teeth roots with special tools. Once teeth cleaning and restoration are complete, the gums are put back into place and stitched. With quick treatment, Dr. Norouzinia can stop the growth and reverse effects of periodontal disease.
Other gum surgeries may include:
Guided tissue regeneration: This surgical technique aids in restoring damaged gum and bone tissue from periodontal disease. Dr. Tran places a small piece of fabric mesh between the damaged bone and gum to prevent excessive gum tissue growth from impeding healthy bone restoration.
Soft tissue grafting: Gum grafts are the answer for receding gum lines that leave teeth exposed and more vulnerable to sensitivity or decay. Though gum graft procedures can vary, the most common procedure is a connective-tissue graft. This procedure sources soft tissues from underneath the roof of your mouth (called the palate) before stitching them into place in the area of gum recession. The incision in the palate is then closed.
Gum contouring: Finally, not all gum procedures are restorative. Gum contouring treatments are a cosmetic service that reshapes the gum line, for patients with “gummy” smiles or uneven gum lines. Dr. Norouzinia or another member of our team finely shapes or reduces gum tissue to create a more symmetrical, aesthetic gum line for your unique smile. For some patients with excess gum tissue, this procedure can actually reduce their chances of developing periodontal disease.
By now, you’ve probably heard the news that dental offices throughout the country are closing their doors to non-emergency patients. This is true; at the advice of the CDC, ADA, and other organizations, many dentists are taking steps to limit contact between their staff and their patients.
These postponed appointments are a critical step in limiting the spread of COVID-19, a new virus that has infected nearly 2 million people around the globe. However, this new policy doesn’t mean that you have to suffer toothaches alone. Many dental offices are still providing emergency care to their patients, and Steger Smiles is no exception.
What is a Dental Emergency?
Currently, the Steger Smiles staff only sees patients whose needs constitute a dental emergency. If you need to see a dentist right away, all you have to do is call us! We’ll be happy to put you into our schedule as soon as we can.
However, this policy can raise an interesting question: what exactly IS a “dental emergency”? According to the ADA, a dental emergency is any condition that causes a patient severe pain or is potentially life-threatening. Several cases fall into this category, such as:
A knocked-out or fractured tooth
A dental abscess (an infected pocket of pus in the tooth)
Bleeding gums that won’t stop
After surgery treatments (like dressing changes or stitch removals)
If you are experiencing one of the conditions listed above, it’s alright to call your dentist and make an urgent appointment. However, if you want a routine cleaning, professional teeth whitening, or any other non-essential treatment, it’s probably best to wait until the COVID-19 crisis has passed.
Signs You Need Dental Care
Let’s say that you wake up tomorrow feeling… a little off. Something’s not quite right in your mouth. Ordinarily, you would call the dentist right away – but now, you’re not sure. After all, does this REALLY count as an emergency? Here are a few signs that you should get immediate dental care:
Pain
Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something needs attention. Oral pain can be any number of things, from a cavity to a gum infection. If you are experiencing intense pain that persists throughout the day, it’s best to have a professional look at your mouth.
Swelling
In most cases, swelling in the mouth indicates an abscess. This means that a tooth or gum has become terribly infected, resulting in a pocket of pus in the mouth. Left untreated, abscesses can become very dangerous and even fatal! If you notice swelling and tenderness in your gums, make sure you call the dentist ASAP.
Bleeding
Admittedly, some people’s gums bleed all the time. They may bleed during brushing and flossing. They may bleed due to hormone changes (if you’re pregnant). In most instances, bleeding gums stop pretty quickly, which tells you there is nothing to worry about. However, if your gums keep bleeding long after the initial incident, it might be a sign of greater problems.
Broken or Lost Teeth
Knock out one of your teeth; you MUST get to the dentist as soon as you can. Most dentists can re-implant a missing tooth – but it’s much harder to do 30 minutes after the incident. Similarly, fractured or chipped teeth that cause severe pain need to be dealt with as quickly as possible.
As you probably know, brushing your teeth is one of the most important components of your oral hygiene routine. It removes food particles, bacteria and plaque from the surface of your teeth and your gums, keeping your mouth clean and healthy between professional cleanings.
Our Calgary dentists recommend you brush at least two times a day, ideally first thing in the morning, and right before bed. If you want to add an extra brushing session each day to optimize your oral health (and keep your breath fresh!), it might make the most sense for you to brush after every meal.
Tip: Try An Electric Toothbrush
If you're brushing regularly but find that a regular toothbrush isn't doing the job for you, try an electric toothbrush! The small, round, rotating heads of electric toothbrushes can make it easier for some people to clean those hard-to-reach spots.
Brushing After Eating or Drinking
Some foods and drinks, particularly those high in carbohydrates and sugars, can stimulate the growth of oral bacteria that attack your tooth enamel. By brushing your teeth after you eat, you reduce this bacteria and help protect your enamel from damage.
For the best results, use toothpaste that contains fluoride to prevent tooth decay, and triclosan to reduce plaque and gingivitis. However, be sure to consult with your dentist before using a fluoride toothpaste, to make sure it's right for you.
It’s important to note that brushing your teeth immediately after eating can in some cases have a negative effect on your tooth enamel. If you have consumed something acidic, you should avoid brushing your teeth for about 30 minutes afterwards.
Foods that contain citric acid, like oranges, grapefruits and lemons, can soften tooth enamel for a time, and brushing too soon after eating them may damage the enamel while it’s in its weakened state.
In general, try eating nutritious foods that are low in sugar and carbohydrates after eating something acidic. This will help reduce the harmful acids that such foods can create.
In addition, prolonged exposure to phosphoric acid, which is often found in soft drinks, can erode your tooth enamel, exposing the more sensitive tissues beneath. Acid erosion can cause permanent damage to your teeth, so to keep it to a minimum, limit snacking between meals and limit your consumption of soft drinks and sugary snack foods.
Everyone loves that fresh, clean feeling after their dental cleanings. Yet, if other sensations are felt, such as tingling, it often causes people to worry.
While the source of the tingling may not be serious, it can be a sign that there is something that needs correction, like you are brushing your teeth too hard.
You Have Nerves And Blood Vessels In Your Teeth
The enamel of your teeth—the hard outermost layer of your teeth—is the hardest substance in your body. However, just because the enamel is hard doesn’t mean that everything inside the structure of your tooth is equally tough.
Under the dentin—tooth layer directly below the enamel—you have your dental pulp, which includes highly sensitive nerves and blood vessels to keep your teeth alive. These nerves help you determine how much pressure you need when biting food, assist with speech as you move your mouth and tongue around your teeth to shape words, and more.
So, temporary discomfort, tingling, and other responses to doing things like scraping your teeth on a fork are to be expected due to the nerves in your teeth. However, if your teeth tingle with no clear indicator or will sporadically start and stop tingling, it may be time to visit our dental clinic for a checkup.
Reasons Why Your Teeth May Tingle
There can be many reasons why your teeth may start tingling. Some of these issues can be resolved at home, but for others, you will need to access dental services to fix the source of your dental discomfort.
Hard teeth brushing – When you use a hard-bristled toothbrush or simply brush your teeth too hard, you can wear down the enamel of your teeth. The more worn-down your enamel, the more of your sensitive dentin is exposed, and the more likely that your teeth will tingle. There is no way to replace the enamel, but you can work on using a more gentle toothbrush and toothpaste that is formulated for sensitive teeth.
Teeth grinding or clenching – Often an unconscious action, bruxism—grinding your teeth in your sleep—or clenching your teeth can make your teeth tingle. Repeated clenching or grinding of your teeth can wear them down, exposing your sensitive dentin and potentially developing cracks in your teeth with the excess pressure. Using a custom nightguard can help protect your teeth in your sleep.
Cavity – Pain is a common response when a cavity develops; however, it is not the only response you may feel. For a small cavity, your tooth may just tingle initially. As the cavity progresses, the tingle can change to pain until the issue is addressed.
Acidic foods and drinks – Foods and drinks that are highly acidic can erode the enamel of your teeth, leaving them more sensitive and prone to tingling. Rinsing your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods and drinks can help reduce the impact.
An issue with a dental filling – A dental filling can become loose over time, especially as your tooth expands and contracts around it. Your tooth may start tingling when a filling becomes loose and starts to move, which can only be corrected by having the dental filling replaced.
Have you experienced tender or bleeding gums? Periodontal disease is the infection and inflammation of the gums, ligaments, and bone surrounding your teeth. It's important to know the causes, treatments, and steps to prevent gum disease so you can protect your oral and overall health.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal means "around the tooth," so periodontal disease refers to the infection and inflammation of the gums, ligaments, or bone that surround your teeth and can vary in severity. The early stages include gingivitis, where the infection is found only in your gums, and they become inflamed, red, and may even bleed. Gingivitis is treatable, and the effects can be reversed if caught early enough.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Poor oral hygiene or uncontrolled bacteria from dental plaque and the toxins produced by that bacteria cause periodontal disease. If not removed, plaque biofilm can spread below the gumline. Those toxins cause infection and inflammation in the gums and destroy the tissues and bones that support your teeth.
Next, your gums begin to pull away from the teeth, forming periodontal pockets, or spaces between the teeth and the gum tissue starts to recede. When these pockets become infected and deepen, more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Eventually, this destruction will cause your gums to recede and your teeth to become loose, and you may even have to remove them.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Because the effects of periodontitis and severe stages of periodontal disease cannot be completely reversed, it's important to establish a preventative care routine before the disease progresses.
If you practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth daily and done correctly, this will remove the plaque from your teeth and prevent build-up. Also, interdental brushes and water flossers may be helpful to remove plaque from between the teeth. It is also recommended to visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar in places that are harder to reach. If you already have periodontal disease, your dentist or periodontist may recommend more frequent visits and implement a more aggressive treatment plan.
Knowing the following factors that can put you at risk for gum disease is important for prevention:
Genetics
Crooked or crowded teeth, braces, and bridges
Grinding, gritting, or clenching teeth
Tobacco use
Medications
Diseases
Poor nutrition
Stress
Hormones
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Symptoms can be varied across the spectrum—from no symptoms in the beginning stages to extreme pain. Other warning signs of periodontal disease include:
Red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
Gums receding or pulling away from the tooth
Abnormal tooth sensitivity, especially around the gumline
Loose teeth or painful chewing
Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
If you recognize any of these symptoms, make an appointment with a dental professional for an evaluation. They will examine your gums with a dental probe to look for infection. They also may take new X-rays to compare with older X-rays and identify any changes to your teeth or bones. If a referral to a specialist is needed, your dentist will refer you to a periodontist.
Periodontal Disease Treatment
If you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, treatments may vary depending on the severity of your case. Some of these treatments include:
Scaling and root planing. For gingivitis or the early stages of gum disease, non-surgical treatments may be available to restore periodontal health. Scaling is a deep cleaning technique that carefully removes plaque and tartar from your teeth both above and below the gumline. Root planing removes plaque and tartar from the root surfaces, smoothing rough spots that trap and hold bacteria. Once the teeth are clean, the gum tissue can begin to heal.
Periodontal gum surgery. A pocket reduction procedure may be an option if the periodontal pockets surrounding your teeth become so deep that they are difficult to clean with regular at-home oral hygiene and a professional care routine. During this procedure, the periodontist makes incisions in your gums to flap back the tissue, providing more access to the roots for more effective scaling and root planing below the gumline and cleaning out the bacterial infection. This will allow for the reattachment of the gum tissue to the teeth.
Gum graft surgery. If periodontal disease progresses and gums begin to recede, the periodontist might recommend surgery to reshape gums or graft new tissue to cover exposed tooth roots. During this surgery, the periodontist takes gum tissue — usually from the roof of your mouth — to cover the root and protect your tooth from decay, bone loss, and further recession.
Regenerative procedures. When periodontitis has destroyed the bone supporting your teeth, regenerative procedures may help reverse some of the damage. After the periodontist exposes the root and removes the bacteria, they may graft bone to the surrounding area of the tooth to encourage your body to regenerate the lost bone and tissue. In time—if adequate bone is present—you may then be a candidate for dental implants to replace teeth that have been lost.
Extraction. In the worst cases of periodontitis, bone loss is so severe that the tooth cannot be saved and must be removed.
Other Health Implications of Periodontal Disease
Unfortunately, the impact of periodontal disease goes beyond your mouth, and researchers are finding more and more links between gum disease and your overall health. Some of these health problems include:
Heart disease. Infection in your gums may increase the risk of clogged arteries and even worsen existing heart conditions.
Stroke. Likewise, periodontal disease may increase the risk of stroke caused by blocked arteries.
Respiratory disease. Bacteria from the mouth may spread to the lungs, causing lung infections or worsening existing lung conditions. Immunocompromised adults with gum disease may be at increased risk for severe pneumonia.
Premature birth. Gum disease during pregnancy may increase the likelihood of delivering the baby too early and the possibility of low birth weight.
Diabetes. Periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar than those with healthy gums.
Don't ignore those tender or bleeding gums. The sooner periodontal disease gets diagnosed and treated, the faster you can return to a healthier mouth.
When there is a large cavity that is unable to be treated with a dental filling, it’s important to see the dentist about a dental crown or, in severe cases, a root canal treatment. Dr. Nicolas Dovey of Del Sur Ranch Dental in San Diego, CA is a general dentist who can assist patients with various dental health needs. When patients have developed holes in their teeth known as “cavities,” it is essential that they seek the help of an experienced 4s ranch dentist to address the problem before it becomes more significant, more expensive, and more damaging to the rest of the tooth.
Especially large cavities, or aggressive tooth decay, may require restorative treatment to save the tooth and strengthen the tooth’s health and surrounding structure.
What are the causes of dental cavities?
Dental cavities are typically caused by poor oral hygiene. Plaque is a sticky film that develops from food debris, saliva, and bacteria that constantly forms on the surfaces of your teeth. If plaque is not treated and removed, it can harden into tartar, which is more difficult to remove. Tartar buildup can lead to dental cavities by providing a place for bacteria to thrive and damage the tooth enamel. Other factors contributing to dental cavities include dry mouth, frequent snacking, acidic drinks, and certain medical conditions.
What are the symptoms of a dental cavity?
• Toothache• Sensitivity to hot and cold• Tooth discoloration
Dental cavity treatment options
Fill the cavity. The most common method of addressing cavities is by placing a dental filling. Fillings used to be made with materials such as silver amalgam, which is formulated with mercury and toxic to the human body. Instead, we use composite resin bonding to fill the tooth with a biocompatible material that is tooth-colored and aesthetic.
Place a crown on top of the tooth. In situations where a very large filling is needed, the tooth’s structure may be compromised. This can leave it susceptible to further damage if not protected. In a case like this, Dr. Nicolas Dovey of Del Sur Ranch Dental will not only fill the tooth, but place a dental crown over the tooth as well.
Extraction. If the cavity has left the tooth beyond repair, it may require permanent extraction. After the tooth has been removed, Dr. Nicolas Dovey will speak to patients about tooth replacement options. These include partial dentures, complete dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants.
When it comes to brushing your teeth, there is such a thing as proper technique. Brushing too hard — or using the wrong toothbrush — can damage your teeth and gums, leading to problems like enamel wear and receding gums, which can, in turn, lead to tooth sensitivity, says Gene Romo, DDS, a Chicago-based dentist and consumer advisor for the American Dental Association (ADA).
“People tend to brush aggressively, thinking it’s the only way they can get their teeth to feel clean and look whiter,” Dr Romo says. “That’s counterproductive because not only does it cause recession of your gums, but you’re also wearing away the white, glossy enamel on your teeth, making them look yellow and darker.” And when that happens, you’re putting yourself at risk for developing sensitive teeth.
Not sure if you’re brushing too hard? Take a look at your toothbrush. If you’ve been using it for three months or less, it should still appear relatively new. “If it looks beat up and flat, that’s a sign you’re brushing way too hard,” Romo says.
The Proper Way to Brush Your Teeth
It requires a lot of mindfulness, but you can change your hard-brushing ways, Romo says. Follow these tips to brush correctly to help relieve tooth sensitivity and prevent damage to your teeth and gums:
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Choose one with the ADA seal and replace it every three months — or sooner if it frays.
Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. That way, the bristles can reach and clean underneath your gumline, Romo says.
Gently move the brush back and forth. Use short, tooth-wide strokes to clean the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of the teeth, the ADA recommends. (If you have a lot of gum recession, your dentist may recommend you try the roll technique. Instead, Romo says.) If you’re using an electric toothbrush, let it do all the work and just lightly glide it over your teeth instead of pushing it against them. To make sure you’re using a gentle grip, try holding your toothbrush in your non-dominant hand.
Slow down. Dentists recommend that you brush for two full minutes — 30 seconds in each quadrant of your mouth — twice a day. Use the timer on your phone or choose an electric toothbrush that alerts you every 30 seconds. “For people who have never tried it, it can feel like an eternity. You don’t know what two minutes feels like until you brush that long,” Romo says. But when you’re not rushing to finish, it will keep you more mindful about brushing too aggressively.
Sticking with these tips can help you keep your teeth clean and your mouth healthy while eliminating symptoms of tooth sensitivity.
Germs may be responsible for most infections and diseases, but did you know that countless germs live in healthy people, too? In fact, there could be more of these tiny microbes in your mouth at this very moment than there are people on earth. And that's even true right after you brush your teeth! So what exactly are mouth germs, and what happens to them when you practice good oral hygiene? We'll let you know all about these tiny inhabitants of your mouth so you can maintain a level of oral health that you can smile about.
What Are Mouth Germs?
Mouth germs are microorganisms that live in your mouth that can cause tooth decay, infection, and diseases. There are four main kinds of germs:
Bacteria According to a review published by the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, you may have over 700 species of these single-celled microorganisms in your mouth. It's normal for them to live there, but it's necessary to practice good oral hygiene to keep bacteria from having adverse effects on your mouth. When bacteria collect on your teeth, they form a thin, sticky layer of plaque. The plaque feeds off sugary foods or carbohydrates, which creates acid that attacks tooth enamel. This can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and without treatment, it can even lead to tooth loss.
Fungi According to a review published by the Journal of Patient-Centered Research and Reviews, about 100 identified fungi species can be found in the human mouth. Most of them don’t cause problems unless there are irregularities. For instance, the fungus Candida lives in most people’s mouths and digestive systems in low numbers. Still, when Candida multiplies, it can cause creamy white lesions to form in your mouth called oral thrush (also known as oral candidosis).
Protozoa Protozoa are single-celled microorganisms that can be parasitic. According to an article published in Periodontology 2000, "few parasites affect the oral cavity, but an increasing body of literature claims that oral protozoa are more common than previously appreciated." Entamoeba gingivalis and trichomonas tenax are free-living amoebas that can become invasive and may play a role in periodontitis.
And viruses Viruses are smaller than bacteria, get inside living cells, and cause them to multiply. Herpes, HPV, and HIV are examples of viruses that can affect the mouth in adverse ways. Viruses are nearly always bad for your health, but they can exist inside of you without any negative effect. Most adults have the most common form of herpes, the Epstein-Barr virus. It's one of the most prevalent viruses in the world, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and it's dormant in most adults.
How Do I Get Rid of Germs in My Mouth?
There is no way to get rid of all the germs in your mouth, but you can protect your oral health from bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses by taking good care of your health and practicing good oral hygiene. Be sure to eat a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise. Brush at least twice a day, and don't forget to brush your tongue. Consider using other helpful products like an antimicrobial mouthrinse and tongue scrapers. And be sure to see your dental professional for regular appointments. By visiting your dental professional regularly, you are better positioned to catch the adverse effects of germs early so you can effectively maintain oral health that makes you smile.
It's no secret that routine oral care can give you a healthy mouth, but prioritizing dental hygiene can also positively impact your overall health. Though it's preventable, heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States. Explore how to reduce risk factors of heart disease and the link between oral and heart health.
Bacterial infections in the mouth can travel through blood vessels and infect other areas of the body. When serious ailments like gum disease (periodontitis) occur in the mouth, those harmful bacteria can make their way to the rest of the body. These microorganisms can cause inflammation of the heart valves leading to heart conditions such as:
Heart Disease
Stroke
High Blood Pressure
How Can Oral Care Prevent Heart Disease?
A healthy oral care routine can go a long way in preventing complications from heart disease. Daily dental hygiene can protect harmful bacteria from entering your body. These simple yet effective tips can significantly reduce your risk of gum disease:
Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day
Interdental cleaning daily
Replacing your toothbrush head every three months or after being sick
Routine visits to a dental professional
What Healthy Foods Support Oral and Heart Health?
A balanced diet and regular physical activity are both part of a healthy lifestyle. By focusing your diet on foods that support oral and heart health, you can prevent serious medical conditions from occurring. While foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats should be avoided, foods that promote oral and heart health include:
Leafy greens help lower blood sugar and boost saliva production
Almonds are high in calcium and low in sugar
Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of diabetes and obesity and strengthen teeth and gums
Salmon is full of vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. It can prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and heart disease
How Can I Support National Heart Month?
February is National Heart Month in the United States. It's an excellent opportunity to start the conversation on the importance of cardiovascular health. Here are some ways you can get involved:
Inspire loved ones to prioritize heart health
Encourage others to wear red on the first Friday of February
Volunteer at a Heart Month event or plan your own
Share a heart-healthy recipe with friends
Engage your social media with Heart Month facts
Learn CPR
When you make oral care a priority, you're doing the same for your overall health. Complications brought on by heart disease are largely preventable, so it's important to stay informed and make the necessary lifestyle adjustments so you can live a happy, healthy life. If you have concerns about heart disease or gum disease, consult with a medical or dental professional to develop a solution that meets your goals.
