When you think of heart health and preventing heart disease, you most likely imagine cutting cholesterol, eating healthy, and exercising.  Have you ever considered that simply brushing your teeth and flossing might play a critical role in lessening your risk of heart disease?  Probably not.  Recent studies are suggesting that there is a link between oral health, most specifically gum disease, and your heart health.  While the evidence is not 100% clear as of yet, it has been shown in certain studies that the presence of oral health issues, including gum disease, were just as good at predicting heart disease as a person’s cholesterol levels.

Taking care of your gums has always been an important part of your oral health, and in light of these recent studies, you should do a double take on your oral hygiene habits.  Remember to brush throughly twice a day and floss each day as well.  Eat a balanced diet and also limit your snacking and sugar intake.  It’s also extremely important to schedule regular professional cleanings with your dentist because simply brushing and flossing cannot remove the hardened plaque that causes gum diseases.

If you notice that your gums are inflamed, bleeding after brushing or flossing, pain when biting or chewing, or loose teeth, it’s very important to get examined.  If you are concerned about the health of your gums, or have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, please contact Stoner Periodontic Specialists right away.