Dentist Littleton, CO- Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease

While there are many theories currently out there that explain the connection between periodontal disease and heart disease, one thing is clear – the health of your mouth can significantly affect the overall health of your body.  The oral cavity is essentially a window into one's body.  Therefore, make sure are getting your oral health checked on a bi-annual basis.  Help protect your heart health by taking proper care of your dental health.

Dr. Greg Herzberg, Littleton Dentist, places a strong emphasis on the importance of proper oral health care. It has been stated that oral bacteria can affect the heart by entering the bloodstream, attaching to fatty plaques in the coronary arteries, and contributing to clot formation, which can obstruct normal blood flow. This obstruction can restrict the amount of nutrients and oxygen required for the heart to function properly, resulting in a heart attack.

Researchers continue to find that those who have periodontal (gum) disease is almost twice as likely to suffer from a heart attack as those without gum disease. What does this mean for you? Dr. Greg Herzberg, Littleton's family dentist, urges you to maintain your regular appointments with his office in order to prevent the development of gum disease.  With routine dental checkups, you can ensure that your mouth is healthy, and, if it isn’t, Dr. Greg Herzberg can help get you on the right track to further prevent systemic complications such as heart attack or stroke.

Dr. Greg Herzberg, Littleton dentist, offers helpful tips to maintain a healthy mouth:

• Decrease foods with high sugar
• Brush twice a day
• Floss daily
• Maintain regular visits with his office
• Use a Waterpik
• Decrease carbonated and sweetened beverages

If you keep your mouth clean, it is very hard for the bacteria that cause periodontal disease to get started.  You will even experience fewer fillings, healthier gums, and a brighter smile. So begin now and take the next step towards a healthy smile and body.

For further information on how to properly care for your teeth to prevent gum disease, contact Dr. Greg Herzberg, your dentist in Littleton, CO.