{"id":562,"date":"2023-02-03T20:44:03","date_gmt":"2023-02-03T20:44:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.whiteclaydental.com\/blog\/?p=562"},"modified":"2026-04-16T21:40:18","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T21:40:18","slug":"how-a-healthy-smile-will-benefit-your-heart","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.whiteclaydental.com\/blog\/2023\/02\/03\/how-a-healthy-smile-will-benefit-your-heart\/","title":{"rendered":"How a Healthy Smile Will Benefit Your Heart"},"content":{"rendered":"
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February is American Heart Month, meaning that it\u2019s the perfect opportunity to assess your cardiovascular health and find new ways of improving your well-being! But did you know that the health of your heart is determined by several factors, including your oral health? Fortunately, it\u2019s quite easy to protect your smile and promote awesome cardiovascular health. Here\u2019s more from your dentist<\/a> about this connection and some tips for you to consider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

The Connection Between Oral and Cardiovascular Health<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Studies indicate a clear link between periodontal disease and an increased risk of health problems including cardiovascular disease; this connection has even been acknowledged by both the American Dental Association and the American Heart Association. The link has mainly to do with the impact of untreated gum disease; the infection causes inflammation that can seem innocent at first but become quite problematic when left untreated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These inflammatory bacteria can spread throughout your body by accessing your bloodstream, eventually infiltrating your heart and increasing the risk of heart disease. Poor oral health also increases your risk of bacterial infection in your bloodstream, which can lead to damaged heart valves. Tooth loss patterns have also been tied to coronary artery disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tips for Keeping Your Smile Healthy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s even estimated that patients with serious gum disease might even be at a two to three times greater risk of a heart attack! But fortunately, by mitigating gum disease and taking other measures that promote a healthy lifestyle, you can reduce the likelihood of experiencing a heart attack or some other type of cardiovascular issue. Here are some tips to consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n