The Connection between Oral Health and Heart Health

What if we told you there was a very important connection between oral and overall health? Most people would be surprised to hear that, but it’s true.

What’s the connection? According to recent data, it can be traced to gum disease, a very common oral health condition that affects a majority of U.S. adults.

Gum disease is caused by a buildup of bacteria and plaque around the gums. Over time, these irritants will cause tissue loss, culminating in the formation of pockets between the teeth and gums. These pockets give the bacteria and plaque of gum disease an entryway into your bloodstream, and from there, to other parts of the body.

What kinds of health problems can be exacerbated by gum disease? Heart disease is one of the most common but it’s not the only one. Other health conditions that can be impacted by gum disease include:

• Hypertension
• Stroke
• Diabetes
• Alzheimer’s
• Pneumonia
• Pre-term birth or low birth weight

You can protect your smile and your overall health by following a couple of easy but important steps.

First, make sure that you’re brushing and flossing every day. At The Dentists at Orenco Station, we recommend brushing twice a day, flossing at least once, and gargling with an antibacterial mouthwash. Following a routine like this will help you control the amount of bacteria in your mouth.

But a good homecare routine isn’t all it takes to enjoy good oral health. We also recommend seeing Dr. Brandon Kearbey and Dr. Malinda Kearbey twice a year for checkups and cleanings. Why so often? Because some patients may be struggling with gum disease without even knowing it. During your appointment with us, we’ll look for signs of the condition and offer care if we find anything.

Call The Dentists at Orenco Station if you’re ready to schedule your next checkup with Drs. Brandon and Malinda Kearbey. They’re happy to care for patients from Forest Grove, Beaverton, Cornelius, Rock Creek, and beyond.