Bad teeth linked to heart disease and Alzheimer’s
Gum disease and poor oral health don’t just put your teeth at risk, studies show they can also lead to serious health problems – including heart disease, strokes and Alzheimer’s.
So, if you’ve been putting off a trip to the dentist – our advice is get there soon.
And with the UK gearing up for National Smile Month, which starts on May 16, there really is no better time.
Smile Month aims to spread three very simple dental health messages to help improve oral hygiene –
- Brush teeth last thing at night and at least one other time during the day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Cut down sugary food and drink
- Visit your dentist regularly
Free dental checks
To help you with the third one, we are offering everyone a free dental examination at our Benijofar clinic.
Regular dental visits are essential for spotting oral health issues and getting them under control before they damage your teeth and your overall health.
But how does what’s going on in your mouth lead to heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s and other serious conditions?
It is all to do with bacteria. If you are suffering gum disease or poor oral health, bacteria from the mouth can get into the blood stream and affect the whole body.
Proteins produced by the bacteria cause platelets in the blood to stick together, increasing the risk of blood clots that can starve the heart of oxygen. Poor blood flow and obstructions can cause heart disease, strokes and heart attacks.
The risk of bacterial chest infections can also be raised by high levels of bacteria in the mouth.
A recent study even linked poor oral health with Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists found people with fewer teeth had a higher risk of developing memory loss or Alzheimer’s. It is thought that gum infections that lead to tooth loss may release chemicals that cause brain inflammation. This in turn is believed to contribute to memory loss and Alzheimer’s.
Even if you practice good oral hygiene, you can still develop gum disease. So, it is really important to visit a dentist regularly so any problems can be quickly dealt with.
Don’t take any chances with your oral health; you could lose more than just your teeth. Call us to book your free dental health check.