HEALTHY TEETH EQUALS HEALTHY HEART
Your oral health can play a significant part in the overall health of your body and, in particular, your heart health.
A number of studies indicate that poor dental hygiene can be associated with a number of health conditions.
The link between poor dental hygiene and heart disease has been confirmed a number of times.
Family dentists can help to ensure your overall health through good dental hygiene.
If you want to maintain a healthy heart throughout your life, commit to daily dental care and seeing your dentist regularly.
BACTERIA AND YOUR HEART HEALTH
Studies suggest that bacteria from the mouth can move into the bloodstream and cause changes in C-reactive protein, a marker associated with inflammation of the blood vessels.
This inflammation can increase the risk for heart disease and stroke.
Evidence indicates that this bacterium is linked to endocarditis, an infection of the lining of the heart muscle, and other health problems.
Rigorous dental hygiene can help to reduce the amount of bacteria that enters the bloodstream to prevent these health issues.
GUM DISEASE AND YOUR HEART
The neglect of dental hygiene often leads to periodontal disease, commonly called gum disease.
Taking care of your teeth daily can help to reduce the risk of gum disease and associated health problems.
HEALTHY EATING
Bacteria are not the only enemy of heart health. Eating a healthy diet is a critical factor in keeping your heart healthy.
Unfortunately; loose or missing teeth can interfere with eating, and this, in turn, can affect your nutrition and your overall health.
Cosmetic dentists can help to restore teeth, so that you can eat foods that improve your health, in addition to improving your appearance.
Nutrition experts recommend eating the following foods to maintain heart health:
Low-fat protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, fish and eggs.
Low-fat dairy products, such as fat-free milk, low-fat yogurt and low-fat cheeses.
Legumes, such as beans, lentils and peas.
Increased amounts of vegetables of all kinds.
Increased amounts of fruit, fresh or canned in juice or water.
Nuts, such as pecans, walnuts, almonds, and soybeans.
Reduced salt soups and prepared foods.
Heart-healthy oils, such as olive oil, coconut oil, canola oil, and peanut oil.
Margarine that is trans-fat-free or cholesterol-lowering.
Whole-grain breads, pasta and quinoa.
MAINTAINING ORAL HEALTH FOR GENERAL HEALTH
Experts recommend a number of actions to ensure that your good oral hygiene contributes to the health of your heart, including:
Daily tooth brushing, at least twice each day.
Floss your teeth every day.
Ensure that your diet includes heart healthy foods and avoid in-between snacks.
Replace toothbrushes every three months.
Get regular dental checkups.
Have your teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis.
Keeping your heart healthy does not happen by accident; it is accomplished by active steps that reduce risks and increase overall health.
Talk to your dentist about ways to keep your heart healthy and strong through good dental hygiene.
The Chandler dentists at Shumway Dental Care will make sure you have a healthy mouth and a beautiful smile.
Whether you need cosmetic dentistry, bridges or crowns, or just a checkup, their staff will make sure your visit is comfortable.
Visit www.mychandlerdentists.com
SHUMWAY DENTAL CARE 3150 S Gilbert Rd Suite 1 Chandler, AZ 85286 (480) 659-7800 shumwaydentalcare@gmail.com