Heart and Oral Health

This is American Heart Month, sponsored by the American Heart Association. Did you know there may be a link between gum disease and heart disease? In 2012, the American Heart Association published a statement supporting that association. Research has shown how people with gum disease are more likely to also have heart disease.

Preventing heart disease is another good reason to take care of your gums and to see your dentist regularly. Gum disease, or periodontitis, is an infection of the tissues that support the teeth and can lead to tooth loss. According to the American Heart Association, people with periodontitis often have risk factors that put both their mouth and their cardiovascular system at risk. Heart disease is the #1 killer of men and women in the U.S.

February is a good time to make sure you are taking care of both your teeth and your heart!

Many of the risk factors for gum disease are also risk factors for heart disease.

Those risk factors for both gum disease and cardiovascular disease that we can control include the following:

Ø  Diabetes

Ø  Diet

Ø  Physical activity

Ø  Tobacco use

Ø  Obesity

Ø  High blood pressure

Ø  High cholesterol

Knowing this connection, it isn't surprising to see how people who have chronic gum disease are people who are at a higher risk for a heart attack. But remember—that’s a list of risk factors we can control and manage through good habits.

To steps to take to avoid gum disease:

1.    Brush teeth at least twice a day

2.    Floss your teeth daily

3.    Eat a well-balanced diet

4.    Get regular dental check-ups and cleanings

To steps to protect your health:

1.    Do not smoke

2.    Manage your weight

3.    Control your blood pressure

4.    Stay physically active

To learn more about ways to help you oral hygiene and overall health call Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. today at (800) 223-0801. 

February National Children's Dental Health Month

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month and the American Dental Association and Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. encourage all kids to join the Super Smile Team and fight to good oral health!

Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease affecting children, and unfortunately, kids who develop cavities in their baby teeth are more prone to develop cavities in their permanent teeth as well.

How to protect children's teeth from decay?

Prolonged exposure to sugar containing liquids can cause tooth decay, so limit your child's consumption of beverages that contain sugar, such as soft drinks, sports drinks, and sweetened fruit juices. If you give your child a sippy cup for long periods of time, fill it only with water and do not allow them to take it to bed. Children should be encouraged to drink from a regular cup as early as possible. since it minimizes the duration of time that the liquid are in contact with the teeth.  Limit sugary or starchy snack, especially those that can remain stuck to or in between the teeth after eating.

When should my child see a Dentist?

It is a good idea to start bringing your child to the Dentist on a regular basis at the age of two, unless you notice obvious dark spots on the teeth before that time. Early visits help familiarize your child with the dental office, reducing anxiety and making future visits less stressful. At your child's visits to our office, we will examine the health and development of their teeth and mouth and review good and preventive oral habits which should be reinforced at home. Feel free to bring your child to your dental cleaning appointments, in order for them to see that mom and dad also get their teeth cleaned. 

If you have questions about your child's dental health or to make an appointment call Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. today at (800) 223-0801.