Dental care and Oral hygiene influence your body's health, including your heart. It's true! So, be sure to visit your Charlotte dentist every six months. Exams and teeth cleanings help ensure your smile is healthy, contributing to overall wellness.
Let's explore how oral health influences heart health.
Gum Disease and Heart Health
Evidence shows that gum disease is about more than tooth loss. Left untreated, it has been linked to everything from Alzheimer's disease to pregnancy complications. It also negatively impacts heart health!
Gum disease is a series of infections and inflammation in the bones and structures that support your teeth. Left to fester, these bacteria can move beyond the bones and ligaments, putting your heart health at serious risk.
Gum Disease Causes and Symptoms
Gum disease has several risk factors, including genetics, tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, lack of dental care, and hormonal changes.
However, you can mitigate your risks by visiting the dentist every six months for checkups and teeth cleanings. Additionally, be sure to brush and floss at least twice daily.
Symptoms of gum disease may include some or all of the following:
- Bad breath even after brushing, flossing, and rinsing
- Bleeding gums when brushing and flossing
- Loose, mobile, or shifting teeth
- Inflamed and irritated gums
- Gum pocketing and recession
- Elongated appearing teeth
- Tooth discoloration
If your dentist catches gum disease in the early gingivitis stage, we can reverse the condition.
However, if it graduates to periodontitis, it is merely treatable, but treatment can lower your risks for complications, including tooth loss and heart-related issues.
Schedule Your Next Dental Checkup and Teeth Cleaning in Charlotte, NC
Dental checkups always include periodontal assessments with the dentist.
To learn more about gum disease or schedule your next checkup and dental cleaning, contact a team member today. Ask a friendly staff member about our exclusive In-Office Dental Savings Plan.