The Oral Health and Heart Health Connection

Our Highland Park and Chicago Heights dental offices’ philosophy of patient care revolves around keeping our patients healthy, and not just in their mouths. Many whole-body concerns are associated with oral health problems, including heart disease. This February, in celebration of Heart Health Month, we’d like to educate our patients on the oral health and heart health connection and how keeping your mouth healthy can protect your entire well-being.

Gum Disease and Its Link to Heart Disease

One of the main areas we’re going to explore is how gum disease can affect someone’s heart health. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection in your gums caused by a buildup of plaque on your teeth. When there’s an infection in your mouth, it can very easily be transferred into your bloodstream. If this occurs, your body produces more C-reactive protein (CRP), which is one of the known indicators of cardiovascular disease. Elevated levels of CRP can lead to some serious health issues including:

• inflamed arteries
• blood clots
• heart attacks
• strokes

Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease is treatable, and treatment is easier and more successful if it’s caught early. If you notice any of the signs below, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as you can.

• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Puffy, tender gums
• Bad breath
• Teeth that feel loose

Keep Your Mouth Healthy

There are things you can do to keep your mouth and gums free of disease. We recommended maintaining appointments at our dental office in Highland Park or Chicago Heights at least twice a year. But that’s not all. It’s also important for you to follow a proper at-home oral health care routine at home. Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day, everyday.  

If you notice any signs of gum disease, or if you’re looking for a new dentist, we welcome you to schedule an appointment with us today. After all, your dentist is an important member of your health care team and can protect your body from serious diseases, like heart disease.

Welcoming patients from Highland Park, Deerfield, Highwood, Chicago Heights, Crete, Park Forest