Protecting Your Heart Might Start by Protecting Your Gums

According to the Academy of General Dentistry, over 80 million people in the United States have one or more forms of cardiovascular disease. Why would that be of concern to a dentist? When you consider that more and more studies are showing direct links between periodontal (gum) disease, the chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue and cardiovascular disease, these concerns become more than relevant for our  Clinton Township dental office

Bacteria from periodontal disease can cause inflammation, not only in your gums, but also in the rest of your body.This chronic inflammation can cause all kinds of problems in your body and more and more studies link it to cardiovascular disease, a class of disease that affects the heart and/or blood vessels. This is serious business when you consider the fact that over 80 million people in the United States have one or more forms of cardiovascular disease. If you are at risk for cardiovascular disease, please let either Dr. Alex or Sophia Masters know right away. Keeping up with your oral hygiene and regularly scheduled dental visits could reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease.

Does Cardiovascular Disease Just Refer to Heart Attacks?

While most people think of cardiovascular disease as simply having to do with the heart, it encompasses diseases of both the blood vessels and the heart including:

• High blood pressure

• Heart attack

• Angina pectoris

• Heart failure

• Stroke

• Arrhythmia

• Heart valve problems

People over age 65, males, Hispanics, African-Americans, and those with high cholesterol or high blood pressure are at an increased risk for this disease, as are those struggling with obesity, smokers, people dealing with a lot of stress, and those who are physically inactive.  

Because of the dangers of cardiovascular disease, both your doctor and our Clinton Township dental office should know about:

• Any diagnosis of periodontal disease or a history of periodontal disease

• Any family members who have been diagnosed with periodontal disease

• Any diagnosis of cardiovascular disease

• A family history of cardiovascular disease

What Dr. Alex or Sophia Masters Can Do to Help

First, of course, we recommend visiting us for a professional cleaning as well as keeping a careful eye on your home hygiene routine. Brush your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day. Don’t forget to floss or use an oral irrigator like a water pick tool. Using an antibacterial toothpaste is helpful too. If you have any concerns about your diet or exercise routine, please don’t hesitate to ask. We can offer tips or if you need more serious help, refer you to an expert. I

For more information about how your oral health can affect your cardiovascular health, please call our  Clinton Township dental office today!

About The Author

Dr. Sophia Papasifakis Masters

Dr. Sophia Masters boasts 33 years of experience in the field of dentistry. Skilled in different dental procedures, she had advanced training in several prestigious dental institutions such as the Kois Center and The Dawson Center for Advanced Dentistry. She is a professional member of several dental organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. Additionally, she actively volunteers for Donated Dental Services, among others, and was an adjunct clinical faculty at Detroit Mercy Dental and the University of Michigan School of Dentistry.

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