While there is no definite evidence that if your prevent gum diseases, like periodontitis, that you may be able to prevent a heart condition or heart disease. The only thing experts, like Dr. Movahed, know for sure is that if you take care of your gums it can lessen atherosclerosis, (build-up of artery clogging plaque) that may result in a heart attack or stroke.
Could periodontal disease cause heart attacks?
Regardless of your oral health, if you're at a high risk for heart disease, you need to take action.
- Maintain a healthy weight or lose weight.
- Consume healthy foods and beverages.
- Exercise several days the week. Walking is a powerful and lightweight exercise and will clear your head while helping your body get or stay healthy.
- Control any medical conditions you may have such as high cholesterol, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
- Reduce your stress. Have lunch with a friend, go for a walk in the park, take a bubble bath, mediate, or do whatever you find relaxing.
- Get a social life. Laughing reduces stress and “feel good” hormones. Everyone needs to feel like they are a part of something: join a book club or any activity where you can interact with other people at least once or twice a week
- Be sure to get enough sleep. The recommended amount is eight to nine hours a night. It has been proven that a lack of sleep increases your risk for angina, strokes, and heart attacks.
- Practice good oral hygiene to keep bacteria in check and your mouth healthy.
Contact our O'Fallon, IL; Columbia, IL office if you have questions about your heart and oral health. If you take practice good oral hygiene, both your mouth and your heart will thank you.