When you hear the words “heart health,” do you think of brushing and flossing your teeth? Chances are, probably not! However, a growing body of research is beginning to suggest that maintaining great overall health starts with your smile. Study after study demonstrates that healthy teeth and gums can boost your general wellbeing, while poor oral health can leave you at a much higher risk of systemic health conditions like diabetes, memory loss, and heart disease. Since February is American Heart Month, it’s the perfect time to learn more about how keeping your smile healthy can protect your heart.  

Has it been a while since your last dental appointment? Whether it’s due to time constraints, cost, anxiety, or the current COVID-19 pandemic, there are plenty of reasons why you may have put off a visit for months or maybe years. However, now that you’ve taken the first step and scheduled your next checkup, you’re that much closer to taking charge of your oral health! Congratulations! If you’re feeling a little nervous or unsure about your appointment, read on to learn more about what your next dental checkup will look like if it’s been a while.