You may have already been aware of all the benefits of caring for your teeth – and we don’t just mean a reduction in cavities, gum disease and tooth loss. Poor oral hygiene can cause a long list of problems, from diabetes to cancer to even heart attack and heart disease. But did you know that, conversely, excellent oral health can reduce the risk of such illnesses, by margins that are far too big to ignore?
So claims a new study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology. The study, which was conducted on 161,000 participants with excellent heart health in South Korea, followed the subjects for about a decade. In that time the study looked at participants who reported brushing their teeth between two and three times each day. Those participants reportedly had a 10 percent lower risk of atrial fibrillation and a 12 percent lower risk of heart failure than those who did not care for their teeth as well as the other participants.
So, why the increase? Researchers believe that the bacteria that form in the gum pockets of the mouth are likely to blame. Those bacteria can enter the human bloodstream, traveling to places like the brain, pancreas and heart. This in turn increases the risk for cardiac episodes such as heart attack and atrial fibrillation or even stroke or cancer.
That’s why the researchers in the study, as well as dental professionals like Dr. Abelar, recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day, for at least two minutes at a time, and flossing between each tooth at least once per day. Flossing reaches where brushing can’t, removing about 30 percent of the bacteria on the surface of your teeth that your brush simply can’t get to.
If you are experiencing swollen gums, tender gums or gums that bleed when you brush and floss, schedule an appointment with Dr. Abelar today to rule out anything serious like gum disease. It’s a move that could potentially save your teeth – and your life.
To reach Dr. Abelar’s office with questions or to schedule an appointment, please call 858-523-1400.
