subject: Good dental health helps your heart [print this page] Good dental health helps your heart Good dental health helps your heart
It's a simple assumption really bad teeth often reflects bad health. Due to new research we now can truly understand that real connection between dental health and general good health. The key is inflammation of the gums, also known as gum disease. Theory shows that bacteria from excessive dental plaque can seep into the bloodstream through inflamed gums, producing an enzyme that makes blood platelets "stickier." This heightens the chance of the blood clotting, and can also cause arteries to become harder.
Pearly whites contribute to good health!
The good news is that the above is easily avoided through maintaining good dental health. After all, your heart has enough to deal with every second of every day. Why not lend a helping hand by exercising some of the Healthy Hideout's top dental health tips:
Brushing your teeth should take 2 minutes
Teeth timers are sold for children to ensure that they brush for at least two minutes. Get hold of one and use it when you brush in the morning and evening. Some electric toothbrushes even have a timer built in. Start the timer and brush until it rings, making sure to brush at 45 degree angles to the gums, whilst covering all surfaces of the teeth. This includes behind the teeth and at the very back of the mouth.
Replace your toothbrush when it needs replacing
The British Dental Health Association states "worn-out toothbrushes cannot clean your teeth properly and may even damage the gums. When bristles become splayed, they simply do not clean properly." Try to change your brush at least every 3 months, buying a good sized head that suits your teeth and mouth size.
Flossing is important
The British Dental Health Association claims that a staggering 90% of us simply don't take the time to floss at the end of the day. Many inter-dental devices are now widely available to make flossing easier and more convenient. However, if you're looking to utilise the standard method be sure to use a waxed floss. Take the floss between your left and right index figure and work the floss gently along the sides of each tooth and along the gum line. Before bed is the best time.
Mouthwash Important and underrated
An anti-bacterial mouthwash can help to reduce the amount of tooth plaque that builds up on the teeth, but try not to overuse alcohol based mouthwashes. Prolonged use of alcohol based mouthwashes has been related to certain oral cancers, due to the prolonged exposure of alcohol to the mucosa lining of the mouth. There are many non-alcohol options available, so do some research and get one that suits you remember to always follow the instructions.
Stimulate your saliva production
If the thought of encouraging saliva production makes you a little uneasy, try looking at it from this angle: A dry mouth has been shown to encourage dental decay by allowing tooth plaque and bacteria to cultivate on the teeth. Chewing sugar-free gum can help prevent this, but drinking plenty of water throughout the day is an easy way to keep on top of dry mouth.
See a dental healthhygienist
Often seen by many a "glorified dentist", dental health hygienists are just as important as dentists. They specialise in cleaning your teeth and mouth using specialist tools, getting to certain areas you may have missed. Visiting them at least twice a year is highly recommended.
Looking at the above pointers, it seems clear that good dental health doesn't just give you attractive pearly whites It can contribute to your overall general health and potentially save your life. What dental health routine do you practice? As ever, the Healthy Hideout would love to hear from you. In the meantime, I do feel like going to brush my teeth for some reason.
