Heart Health Month
Heart health month is here, and we take our role in fighting this disease very seriously. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among men and women in the United States; therefore, it is crucial to understand how this could be impacted by your oral health. There has been a lot of news in the past few years about the oral systemic link, and our goal is to educate patients, so there is increased knowledge, resulting in prevention.
What is the oral systemic link? This comes from the fact that the mouth is not separate from the rest of the body, and therefore, diseases that plague the mouth can also affect the rest of the body and vice versa. The bacteria present in the mouth associated with periodontal disease can have a direct effect on diseases in other parts of the body, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Recent studies have shown that people with gum disease have a two to three times higher risk of having a heart attack. The best way to prevent and detect gum disease is through regular dental cleanings and exams.
Some signs of gum disease that we look for during an exam include:
Red, swollen or puffy gums, that may be tender
Bleeding
Bad breath that doesn’t go away
Recession and bone loss– gums that are pulling away, which may cause your teeth to look longer than normal
These are some of the symptoms of periodontal disease that could be affecting your overall health and should be mentioned when visiting the office. One of the best methods of prevention is having your teeth cleaned at least twice per year and staying diligent with your home care. Let’s work together to keep you healthy.
To schedule an appointment please call 803-736-9991 or email us at indigo@indigodentistrycolumbia.com