If YOU’RE ANYTHING LIKE THE REST OF US, you understand how important it is to take care of your heart, right? Of course! I bet you didn’t know that your lowly little toothbrush is just as good at fighting off heart disease as your gym membership. It’s true! According to Dr. Brei, “Many recent studies have connected heart disease directly to gum disease and other oral health issues. It was recently reported by the American Academy of Periodontology study that people with periodontal disease are nearly twice as likely to have heart disease. Other oral health problems, including missing teeth, gingivitis, and/or cavities, are just as reliable at predicting heart disease as are bad cholesterol levels! Surprising, huh!? Dr. Brei adds, “Bacteria in your mouth can enter your bloodstream through your gums and begin clumping in artery plaques, directly contributing to blockages.” Oral bacteria traveling through your bloodstream can cause blood cells to swell, leading to the narrowing of arteries and clot risks. There are other theories that revolve around your body’s defenses against bacteria, including the natural response of inflammation. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUK6Z1aJ_sQ&fs=1&hl=en_US] Though it is still unclear what the EXACT relationship between cardiovascular disease and periodontal disease are, today’s research continues to conclude that there’s definitely a connection. However, this doesn’t mean we can start ignoring all of the other things that keep our hearts healthy. We still need to eat healthy foods, exercise regularly, and take care of risk factors like diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Since it’s SO EASY to clear up any periodontal disease problems with Dr. Brei and his team’s assistance, be sure to take advantage! And don’t forget that EARLY PREVENTION is the best way to eliminate future problems. If you have any questions, be sure to ask. We would love to help!
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