Link Between Heart Disease & Oral Health

February is American Heart Month, and while we’re flooded with all the usual advice (eat right, exercise, reduce cholesterol and blood pressure), there’s something else that most people don’t associate with preventing heart disease: good oral health. How does oral health to relate to heart disease? Chronic inflammation from gum disease can cause inflammation in all arterial walls in the body. Bacteria from gum disease can travel through the blood stream and become arterial plaque. Bacteria from tooth decay can form an abscess, sending the infection into the arteries. How can you reduce your risk? Brush, floss, and get gum disease treated. Address and control tooth decay. Get an interleukin-1 saliva test to identify your genetic risk of coronary artery disease and periodontal disease. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet by limiting sugar and salt, eliminating processed foods, and eating plenty of produce. Limit alcohol. Work closely with your physician and dentist. Listen in as Dr. Susan Maples shares how proper oral hygiene is good for your heart.