Blog from Heart.org
Mouth germs and gum inflammation can enter the bloodstream and is linked to inflammation in the body. Gum disease is linked to higher risk for heart and blood vessel disease and high blood pressure.
Act now to improve your oral health and heart health
- Take your medications as prescribed and discuss the side effects of any medications, over the counter or prescribed, with your total health care team.
- Brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day to remove plaque-forming bacteria.
- Eat a healthy diet rich in essential nutrients and reduce intake of refined carbohydrates like added sugars and processed grain foods.
- Avoid smoking and tobacco use, such as dipping and chewing tobacco, cigarettes, vaping or hookah, as they can affect gums and increase the risk of heart disease.
- Talk with your dentist about recommendations to ensure your care is tailored to your health needs.
- Talk to your dentist and doctor or other health care professionals (your total health care team) about the connection between oral health and the health of your body.
- Share your medical history with your dentist, including current conditions and any recent behavior changes in oral health care routines or new oral health symptoms.