With February being heart month, our hygienists, Laura and Hayley, would like to give you some facts on the relationship between heart disease and periodontal (gum) disease.
Did you know that the same bacteria that is found in the mouth is also found in your arteries? The mouth is a pathway to the body, and your oral health is ultimately tied to your overall health.
People who have chronic periodontal disease are at a higher risk of a heart attack.
Some other risk factors include:
- cigarette smoking
- poor nutrition
- diabetes
Gum disease affects over 80% of adults. When it comes to maintaining periodontal health, prevention is the best medicine. It is very important to practise good oral hygiene and have regular dental visits. You are not only maintaining oral health but overall health as well.
Please inform our office if you have any type of heart surgery and if you have suffered a heart attack recently. You should wait at least 6 months before having any dental treatment.
Stay healthy, keep smiling and we will see you in our chairs.
Laura and Hayley |
