Your Mouth, Your Heart

If you have heart disease-or are at high-risk of developing heart problems-you need to be aware of the link between oral health and systemic health.

Recent studies suggest that people with periodontal disease very often have heart disease as well. One theory is that this is due to oral bacteria present in gum disease, which can affect the heart if they enter the bloodstream.

While periodontal disease doesn't necessarily cause heart disease, it is nevertheless a good risk indicator.

Remember, the mouth is the gateway to the body. Take care of your gums and teeth and it can pay off. Whether you see them or not, good oral care can have an impact on the health of other areas of your body-including your heart.

If you have, or are at risk of getting, heart disease:

• Keep your mouth healthy with twice daily brushing, using a high quality toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. For most people it is easier to remove plaque with a powerbrush, for example the Sonicare, than with a manual toothbrush. Floss daily as well.
• See your dentist and dental hygienist as directed and make sure they know about your heart condition and overall health.
• In turn, alert your physician if you have periodontal disease.
• If you have gums that are red or irritated or that bleed easily, see your dentist immediately.
• Use medications, including antibiotics, exactly as instructed.

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