Can Hypertension Be a Result of Poor Periodontal Health?
If you regularly see a complete health dentist, you are in good hands. This dentist is concerned about helping you to avoid tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral problems. With your dentist’s help, you can also continue to have a sound cardiovascular system. People who get regular periodontal treatment from the dentist are less likely to have high blood pressure. Make sure you do your part to keep your heart well.
What a complete health dentist does
While most dentists focus on cavity and gum disease prevention, a complete health dentist is concerned about how a patient’s oral hygiene is impacting their overall health. This dentist will develop strategies to improve patients’ diets. Also, this dentist may instruct patients on how to brush and floss more effectively. Cancer screening and cardiovascular health monitoring are also important parts of a wellness checkup. These dentists can treat patients of all ages and will work closely with doctors, especially for people who have health concerns.
The link between gum health and heart problems
To avoid cavities, patients must brush twice a day and floss daily. Flossing not only keeps gums pink and firm, but this activity can have a positive impact on keeping hypertension at bay. When a person does not floss, bacteria build up on the gumline and between teeth, causing plaque. This can eventually turn into tartar.
Left untreated, these bacteria can get into the bloodstream. There is a cascade effect where heart disease can result. Symptoms may first be high blood pressure. However, patients who do not care for their periodontal wellness can be at risk of having a stroke or heart attack.
The importance of flossing
Flossing is not a task to do in the days before an appointment with the complete health dentist. As soon as a child is able on their own, they should start to floss each day. This habit should continue throughout life. Flossing dislodges food from in between teeth, reducing the chances of having plaque buildup. Consequently, the gums should not become swollen. The patient can keep bacteria out of the mouth and the cardiovascular system.
Help from the dentist
Visiting the complete health dentist at least twice a year is crucial. At a wellness appointment, the dentist will examine the patient’s teeth and gums. Some dentists even take the patient’s blood pressure, especially ones who have a history of gingivitis or periodontitis. A teeth cleaning will also occur where the hygienist scrapes away plaque and tartar from the gumline and teeth.
Healthy gums equal a strong heart
You may not realize it, but the way your gums look can affect how well your heart works. Failing to floss can cause gum disease and tooth loss. Perhaps even more concerning, infections can arise and may even reach your heart. If you do not pay close attention to your periodontal health, you could develop hypertension. These serious issues do not have to be in your future. Take your gum health seriously and visit your complete health dentist today.
Request an appointment here: https://dentalcareofmadison.com or call Dental Care of Madison at (601) 898-9390 for an appointment in our Madison office.
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