You may think that going to the dentist is only required when you have a toothache or want a beautiful smile. But, in reality, regular visits could save your life! As dramatic as that sounds, it is 100% true.
Good oral health is essential for overall well-being because it minimizes your risk of significant health issues, including cardiovascular disease. A healthy mouth is linked to a healthy heart. Problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body.
The Path to Your Heart Begins in Your Mouth
It seems odd that your oral health can affect your internal organs, but when you consider how your mouth is the gateway for almost everything entering your body, then it makes sense. Unfortunately, brushing and flossing at home (as crucial as it is) isn’t a robust cleaning process.
Getting your teeth and gums cleaned by our expert dental hygienists at Mint Dental is a more thorough procedure that removes plaque and tartar from deep pockets you cannot reach yourself. We use special tools to remove plaque buildup and tartar accumulations that are not thoroughly addressed by day-to-day means.
The Connection Between Your Mouth and Your Cardiovascular System
Your mouth is the entry point to your digestive and respiratory systems, and your cardiovascular system through them. In addition, your mouth is bustling with bacteria, albeit mostly harmless if kept under control via good oral hygiene practices.
If not maintained, then harmful bacteria have the opportunity to multiply and enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation or infection in other parts of your body. For example, if your gums are infected, bacteria can enter your bloodstream and cause plaque buildup in your arteries, subjecting you to the risk of a heart attack.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry combed through over 1,000 medical histories. They found that individuals with gum disease were three times as likely to have a stroke and twice as likely to have a deadly heart attack.
Endocarditis is another potential health problem caused by inadequate oral care. It is an infection of your heart chambers or valves’ inner lining. It usually occurs when bacteria from your mouth (or another body part) spread through your bloodstream and attach to your heart.
Protect Your Heart, Teeth and Gums Simultaneously
Taking care of your mouth is simple. All you have to do is exercise good oral hygiene daily, schedule regular checkups and cleanings and contact Mint Dental as soon as an oral health problem arises. Rest assured that you can count on our dental team for excellence in dental care. We will ensure that you reach your highest level of oral health to keep your mouth and the rest of your body feeling great!
