September is National Gum Care Month! Did you know there is a mouth body connection between gum health and heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and respiratory disease? Keep your mouth healthy all year with our best friends!ย
Did you know that gum health is related to heart health? Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease. Poor dental health increases the risk of a bacterial infection in the blood stream, which can affect the heart valves. People with periodontal disease have 2-3x the risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular emergency.
Did you know that there are studies that link dementia to periodontal disease? The oral cavity can contain up to 700 types of bacteria. Chronic inflammation in the mouth can lead to bacteria going from the bloodstream into the brain. Studies show that this can cause dementia and Alzheimerโs disease. In these studies, the patients were diagnosed with periodontal disease first. Seeing your dentist for routine dental cleanings can also help keep a healthy brain! #gumcaremonth