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How to Protect Your Teeth and Your Heart
The good news? Taking care of your oral health is one of the simplest ways to reduce your risk of stroke and heart disease! By maintaining good dental hygiene habits, you can lower inflammation, prevent gum disease, and protect your heart.
5 Simple Steps to Keep Your Smile & Heart Healthy
Floss Daily – Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach.
Brush Twice a Day – Use fluoride toothpaste and brush for at least two minutes to remove plaque and bacteria.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly – Regular check-ups and professional cleanings help catch early signs of gum disease before they become serious problems.
Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet – Limit sugar intake, eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, and stay hydrated to support gum and heart health.
Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol – Smoking increases the risk of gum disease and heart disease, while excessive alcohol consumption can harm oral and cardiovascular health.
Flossing: A Small Habit with Big Benefits
Flossing might seem like a minor step in your daily routine, but its benefits go far beyond just fresh breath and healthy gums. By flossing regularly, you’re not just protecting your smile—you’re actively reducing inflammation, lowering your risk of stroke, and improving your heart health.
Ready to take charge of your oral health?
The Link Between Gum Health and Heart Health
Scientists have long known that poor oral hygiene can lead to serious health complications beyond the mouth. Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is caused by a buildup of plaque, which harbors harmful bacteria. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to chronic inflammation—not just in the mouth, but throughout the body.
Inflammation is a key factor in many serious conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Researchers believe that bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream through infected gums, triggering an immune response that may contribute to the formation of blood clots and arterial blockages. This, in turn, raises the risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease.
The latest study found that people who floss regularly were significantly less likely to experience strokes related to blood clots compared to those who flossed infrequently or not at all. The study also suggested that flossing could help lower the risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib), a condition where the heart beats irregularly, increasing the risk of stroke and heart failure.
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3. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria that could lead to stains. It also helps prevent dry mouth, which can contribute to tooth discoloration.
4. Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings
Professional cleanings help remove surface stains and plaque buildup, ensuring your teeth remain white and healthy. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for routine check-ups and cleanings.
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5. Quit Smoking or Vaping
Tobacco products and vaping liquids contain substances that can quickly stain your teeth. Quitting smoking not only helps preserve your whitening results but also improves your overall oral health.
6. Touch-Up Treatments
Depending on your lifestyle and habits, occasional whitening touch-ups may be necessary. Speak with your dentist about safe at-home whitening products or in-office treatments to maintain your bright smile.
How Poor Oral Hygiene Can Affect Your Heart
When you don’t floss, bacteria and plaque build-up along the gum line, leading to inflammation, gum infections, and eventually, periodontal disease. If left untreated, this can contribute to:
Gum Disease & Inflammation – Bacteria trigger an inflammatory response that doesn’t just affect your gums but can also spread throughout your body.
Increased Risk of Stroke – Chronic inflammation can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of blood clots that may lead to stroke.
Heart Disease & Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) – The bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream, affecting the heart and potentially leading to irregular heart rhythms and cardiovascular issues.
Weakened Immune System – Ongoing infections in the mouth can stress the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off other health problems.
