Caring for Your Oral Health & Preventing Strokes
When most people think about their oral health, they probably don’t consider the link between oral health and other medical conditions — such as strokes. However, there is a strong connection between the two. Poor oral health can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, increasing your chances of having a stroke.
So what exactly is the link between oral health and strokes? Let’s take a closer look.
How Poor Oral Hygiene Increases Stroke Risks
Poor oral hygiene is one of the main risk factors associated with higher risks of strokes. This is because oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation of the blood vessels. This inflammation can then lead to blood clots, which can block the flow of blood to the brain and cause a stroke.
Another way oral health can impact your risk of strokes is by causing gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can damage the tissues and bones that support the teeth. Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of strokes and other severe health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
Additional Risk Factors
Anyone can suffer from a stroke, but a few factors increase your risk, such as:
- Being 55 years of age or older.
- Having an existing chronic illness, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
- Smoking or using tobacco products.
- Struggling with high red blood cell counts or cholesterol.
Prevention Tips for a Healthy Smile
To reduce your risk of developing oral health problems that could lead to a stroke, it’s essential to practice good oral hygiene habits. This means brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Not only will you be helping to keep your mouth healthy, but you’ll also be helping to monitor your overall health.
If you have existing oral health problems, it’s essential to get them treated as soon as possible. This will help reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease and having a stroke.
Enhanced Wellness Dental Hygiene Visits at ProHEALTH Dental
If you’re concerned about your oral health or your risk of stroke, talk to your dentist during your next appointment. They can help you assess your risks and develop a plan to keep your mouth healthy.
ProHEALTH Dental provides convenient, non-invasive chairside screenings that may reveal an undiagnosed medical condition. While this is not a definitive diagnosis of a particular health complication, it may indicate the need for further evaluation.
To book your next appointment, contact us at (855) 750-5011 or visit us online today.