Blog

When discussing heart health, our minds usually go straight to eating right, exercising regularly, and finding ways to reduce stress. But how often do we think about our dental health in this mix? As we observe Heart Awareness Month, it’s a great time to explore the surprising link between dental care and heart health.

The Mouth-Heart Connection

The idea that the state of your mouth could affect your heart seems far-fetched. But, research confirms there’s a strong link between gum disease and serious cardiovascular conditions.

So, how exactly are your gums connected to your heart? It all comes down to inflammation. Gum disease, known as gingivitis, is a chronic inflammatory condition that starts with plaque buildup on your teeth.

If left untreated, gingivitis may progress to periodontal disease. When this happens, your gums can start to pull back, creating pockets around your teeth where infections can take hold. Over time, this can even lead to losing teeth.

But the effects of periodontitis go beyond your mouth. The bacteria and inflammatory markers from gum disease can enter your bloodstream, where they can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis – the deposition of lipids, cholesterol, and other substances in and on artery walls.

This accumulation may cause hardened and constricted arteries, which are key risk factors for heart disease, stroke, and heart attacks.

Other Health Risks Linked to Poor Oral Hygiene

While the connection between dental care and heart health is undoubtedly significant, the impact of poor oral hygiene doesn’t stop there. Research has also suggested links between gum disease and other health issues.

For those managing diabetes, maintaining good oral health is particularly crucial. Gum disease may make it difficult to regulate blood sugar levels, worsening gum disease and creating a vicious cycle.

Similarly, harmful bacteria from your mouth can be inhaled into your lungs, potentially leading to respiratory infections, particularly in people with existing lung conditions.

Some studies even show that the persistent inflammation associated with gum disease may raise the chance of acquiring certain malignancies, such as pancreatic cancer.

How to Protect Your Smile and Your Heart

The good news is that you can also protect your heart health by taking simple steps and here’s how:

Brush and Floss Daily

Maintain good tooth hygiene by brushing and flossing at least twice daily. This helps to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup.

Regular Dental Visits

Don’t skip your dental check-ups. Regular cleanings and exams can catch gum disease early before it leads to  severe damage.

Eat a Balanced Diet

What you eat affects more than just your waistline. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats promotes oral and cardiovascular health.

Quit Smoking

About 20% of South African adults smoke cigarettes, according to findings by the South African Demographic and Health Survey (SADHS). Smokers are six times more likely to develop gum disease and up to four times more likely to develop coronary heart disease compared to non-smokers. The sooner you quit smoking, the sooner your body can start to heal and repair itself.

Manage Stress

Stress doesn’t just affect your mind; it can take a toll on your gums and your heart. Find healthy stress-management strategies, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.

Pay Attention to Your Gums

Don’t ignore your gums. If you notice redness, swelling, or bleeding, it’s time to see your dentist.

Conclusion

As we focus on heart health this month, let’s not forget the important role that dental care plays in keeping our hearts strong. By caring for your teeth and gums, you also look after your cardiovascular system. This Heart Awareness Month, make your dental care routine a priority. Your heart- and your dentist – will thank you.

At Affinity Dental, we are dedicated to making dental care accessible and affordable for you and your family. When you choose one of our dental plans, you can access a vast network of over 2,000 skilled and professional dentists. Our benefits include mouth examination, scale and polish, intraoral radiographs, infection control, and more. Contact Affinity Dental for helpful advice on which dental plan best suits you and your family, and visit a network Dentist for more ways to keep your smile healthy.