Dental Health for Heart Health

February is Heart Month, and research indicates that dental health is an important part of heart health.  The link between your heart and your mouth is key to reducing your risk of heart disease.

The heart and the mouth

Evidence continues to support the connection between gum disease and heart disease.  The American Dental Association reports that the same bacteria that cause gingivitis can cause conditions leading to heart attack and stroke.  Your mouth is home to all kinds of germs.  Dental health issues like gum disease or tooth decay make it easy for the harmful germs to enter your bloodstream--and infect your heart. 

Give your dentist your medical history

Your dentist should ask before doing work on your mouth, but make sure you talk about any heart issues you have.  Give your dentist a complete medical history; mention any medications you're taking for a cardiovascular condition; and give the dentist your cardiologist's contact info so they can communicate about your care.

Keep anxiety away

Some people are nervous about dental visits, and the situation can worsen when heart health is already compromised.  If that's happening to you, talk to your dentist.  Together you can work on strategies to keep your stress in check while getting a check-up or other procedure.

Oral health is heart health

Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Brush at least twice daily, floss regularly, and see your dentist every six months.