Did you know that nearly half of the people in the United States have heart disease?!
According to the American Heart Association, It is estimated that roughly 127.9 million Americans (48.6%) ≥20 years of age have CVD, including coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, or hypertension.
What is heart disease?
According to the CDC, the term heart disease can refer to several different types of conditions, most commonly Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) – which is caused by plaque buildup in the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the heart. It doesn’t take much thought to make the connection between oral health and heart health. The foods you eat directly affect your oral health as well as your heart health.
Gum disease and heart disease..is it connected?
According to the CDC, 47.2% of adults in the United States over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease. Notice how closely related this percentage is related to the number of people who have heart disease? Gingivitis is caused by plaque buildup on your teeth – heart disease is plaque buildup in your arteries. Everything is connected.
People can acquire gingivitis through poor oral hygiene practices. Untreated gingivitis can lead to tooth loss and other serious conditions. You may have gingivitis if you notice the following symptoms: gums that are swollen, puffy, receding, sometimes tender, or that bleed easily. Typically gingivitis can be treated through professional cleaning from a dental hygienist as well as mouthwash rinses. However if left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease which is far more permanent and less easy to treat.
An infection in your mouth can lead to infection throughout your body. Your teeth are connected to all kinds of nerve canals that supply blood to the rest of your body and mouth. For example if there is an abscess at the root of your tooth, the infection can spread to your jaw, head and neck.
What can I do to improve my heart health and oral health?
Daily brushing and flossing can reverse acute gingivitis. Healthy mouth = healthy heart.
Your body has to process everything you consume. Any food, smoke or drink has to be broken down in some way. All of this affects your heart and oral health. Bottom line : consume healthy food and drink, practice good oral hygiene and your risk of heart and gum disease will decrease significantly.
| What are some natural foods that can help my overall oral health? Water – water hydrates you and naturally refreshes your mouth and washes away sugars. Cheese, Milk & Yogurt – these foods are high in calcium which is important for maintaining bone density. Fruits & Veggies – Crisp fruits such as apples and celery naturally clean plaque and freshen breath. Spinach, Kale, Leafy greens – these vegetables are high in folic acid and crisp lettuce naturally cleans your teeth. |
During our 3-Month dental assisting and radiology program in Fishers, Indiana we educate our students about the WHY. We educate our students about the HOW. We educate our students about the IMPORTANCE of good oral hygiene. If dental assisting seems like a career path that interests you – give us all! We currently host Spring, Fall, and Winter dental assisting sessions. Enroll today!
If you’d like to enroll in our program give us a call at 317-585-9015.
Start your new journey to becoming a dental assistant today, by contacting Lynn Uptgraft.
Request Enrollment | DOT North
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