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Mother's Day is a time to celebrate and appreciate the women who have raised and nurtured us. However, it's also essential to recognize the importance that our mothers' maintain good oral health by understanding how it is connected to their overall physical health and well-being.
One crucial aspect of women's health that often goes overlooked is gum disease and its impact on heart health. As we celebrate Mother's Day, it's important to understand the connection between the two and healthy oral habits that will help keep our mothers healthy for years to come.
How Gum Disease is Linked to Heart Health in Women
Gum or periodontal disease can have severe repercussions for women's hearts. Gum disease is an infection that affects the gums and bones surrounding the teeth. If left untreated, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel to other body parts, including the heart.
Gum disease can contribute to the buildup of plaque in arteries, which can eventually lead to the following conditions:
- Heart disease
- Heart attacks
- Strokes
Studies have shown that women with gum disease are two to three times more likely to develop heart disease than those without gum disease. Therefore, good oral health is critical to heart and overall health, so we must take care of it.
Gum Disease Treatment Options
Treatment for gum disease varies depending on the severity of the condition. In its mildest form, known as gingivitis, treatment typically involves regular brushing and flossing to remove plaque, bettering your daily oral hygiene routine, and regular dental cleanings.
However, if gum disease progresses to a more severe stage, known as periodontitis, your dentist may recommend a scaling and root planing procedure.
Scaling
This treatment consists of deep cleaning using instruments designed to remove hardened plaque and tartar below the gum line, which can help control the progression of the disease.
It's essential to prioritize gum disease treatment, as untreated gum disease only worsens over time. If left untreated, you may develop tooth loss, bone loss in the jaw, and more severe heart health implications.
It's important to note that treating gum disease is crucial not just for oral health but also for overall health. Women can significantly reduce their risk of developing heart disease or other cardiovascular conditions by treating gum disease.
Gum Disease Prevention Options
Keeping up with good oral hygiene habits, such as:
- Brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice daily
- Flossing daily
- Rinsing with mouthwash daily
- Visiting your dentist regularly
These healthy oral habits can go a long way in preventing gum disease.
Aside from maintaining good oral hygiene habits, there are other lifestyle changes women can make to further reduce their risk of both gum disease and heart disease, such as:
- Regular exercise
- Maintaining a healthy diet that is low in sugar and processed foods
- Quitting smoking
- Limiting alcoholic beverages
- Staying hydrated
Implementing these lifestyle changes can make a significant impact on both oral and heart health.
Dear Moms, We Appreciate You!
This Mother's Day let's focus on the health and well-being of all the mothers in our lives. Gum disease can more significantly impact women's heart health than we realize. Therefore, it's essential to prioritize good oral hygiene habits, regular dental check-ups, and adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle to maintain gum and heart health.
Let's show our mothers how much we love and appreciate them by encouraging them to prioritize their oral and overall health and well-being!
For more information on gum disease or to schedule an appointment, contact our experienced professionals at ProHEALTH Dental. Give us a call today! (855) 750-5011