Lakefront Family Dentistry Blog

Treating Gum Disease Can Reduce the Risk of Heart Attack

If You Could Live Longer by Brushing and Flossing Daily, Would You Take Better Care of Your Teeth?

It may sound like we’re making this up, but it’s a proven fact that brushing at least twice per day and flossing daily can save your life. Would you rather take prescription medication every day to prevent heart attacks, heart disease and strokes, or would you prefer using that beautiful toothbrush and floss sitting on your bathroom counter just waiting to help you live a longer, happier, healthier life?

Sadly, only 1 in 10 people brush their teeth properly, and in the UK, over 7 million people do not even brush their teeth regularly. The American Dental Association stated studies show that gum disease is related to heart disease. You might not have control over many things in life, especially genetic conditions, but you do have control over your own destiny and health by brushing and flossing every single day.

More importantly, scheduling a professional teeth cleaning with a registered dental hygienist twice a year means a longer, happier life because approximately 70% of your teeth, plaque and bacteria form below the gum line. Don’t take a chance with your life; it’s much too valuable to go without the proper oral care.

Gum Disease Treatment Before and After Picture
Before and After Gum Disease Treatment

Coronary Disease

Did you know that people with gum disease are almost two times more likely to have heart disease? This means your coronary arteries build up with plaque and impede blood flow to the heart, which increases your chance of stroke or heart attack.

A Good Indication of Heart Disease Factors

A study showed that a presence of gingivitis, missing teeth and cavities are a great prediction of higher cholesterol levels and heart disease. Don’t just focus on your diet and exercise to reduce cholesterol, start using the best toothbrush and floss each day, too!

periodontitis and gum disease are linked to heart disease and strokes

657 People with No Known Heart Disease…

In a study published by the Journal of the American Heart Association, “657 people who had NO known heart disease found that people with higher blood levels of certain disease-causing bacteria in the mouth were more likely to have atherosclerosis in the carotid artery in the neck. This leads to a stroke.”

If all you need to do is brush two times a day and floss to prevent hardening of your arteries (as well as maintain a healthy lifestyle), why not begin the best dental regimen immediately!

broken teeth and decay requiring immediate dental treatment.
Broken teeth and decay requiring immediate dental treatment.

Make the Right Choices When it Comes to Brushing Your Teeth

1)      The right toothbrush makes a difference.  Choose a toothbrush with medium bristles so they don’t make your gums bleed and isn’t so abrasive that you erode your tooth enamel. Make sure the handle is comfortable and head is not too large, so you can reach the back teeth easily.

2)      The perfect time to brush your teeth is right after each meal. Generally, brushing after your three main meals is the perfect amount; namely, breakfast, lunch and dinner. If you brush and floss too much, you will irritate your gums and remove needed enamel. If your teeth become sensitive, you can purchase prescription toothpaste at Lakefront Family Dentistry that will put needed fluoride back on your teeth and stop the sensitivity. If you snack on foods or beverages that are also sugary throughout the day, you will need to brush again to avoid decay and cavities.

3)      How fast or slow should you go? Brushing quickly and with intent isn’t necessarily the best way to brush your teeth. Dr. Hauser and Dr. Phillipe recommend the Sonicare DiamondClean toothbrush, which has many control settings that are timed to give you the best pressure and most effective cleaning. Two minutes is the recommended time to brush your teeth, breaking the timing down by quadrants. We sell the professional Sonicare line at our dental office. Just ask us which one is right for you and your family members.

Lakefront Family Dentistry believes in treating gum disease so you can live a healthier, happier life. Call (951) 244-9495 to schedule an appointment or make an appointment online. We want to make sure you live a healthy, happier life!