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s a dentist, Dr. Shaghayegh Madani has been treating patients in the Alexandria community for more than a decade, with a focus on cardiovascular health. “I have found that looking at the bigger picture is very important because cardiovascular disease prevention and detection often begins with routine visits with your dentist,” says Madani, who took over Alexandria Dental Art in 2019. “One of the procedures that we perform, commonly known as deep cleaning, allows for the removal of hardened plaque deposits and bacteria under the gum line. Studies have shown that chronic inflammation from gum disease has been linked to the development of diabetes as well as cardiovascular problems such as strokes, blocked blood vessels and heart disease. Maintaining a healthy mouth is vital to maintaining a healthy body.” 64 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE
The importance that she places on heart health comes from a personal place. “GO RED has a special place in my heart because cardiovascular disease robbed me of the opportunity to have my final goodbye with my beloved grandmother prior to her passing from a sudden heart attack,” Madani says. “She was not only my grandmother, but she was also my best friend, teacher and confidante all wrapped up in one person. Losing her was one of the most difficult experiences I have had to undertake as a young adult.” Deep dedication to her patients and passion has made her practice a success, and her love of the community is readily apparent. “Our office is involved with a number of charitable organizations, but we recently partnered with Heart Church of Virginia, putting together 200 adult dental kits and 100 child dental kits for the unhoused population this holiday season.”
