| "> | | | | more studies suggest that periodontal disease may |
| Everyone loves a bright smile. It conveys friendliness | | | | increase your risk for heart disease. Recent studies |
| and warmth. In fact, a dazzling smile can change the | | | | indicate that people with periodontal disease are |
| complete appearance of an individual. But there's | | | | almost twice as likely to have a fatal heart attack |
| more to these pearly whites than just the aesthetics. | | | | than those who do not. |
| Getting regular dental check-ups and teeth cleanings | | | | If you or members of your family have a history of |
| can be beneficial to your heart as well as your smile. | | | | heart problems, it is especially important for you to |
| Early signs of periodontal disease can be detected | | | | have good periodontal health. This means brushing |
| and treated before it's allowed to damage your | | | | after every meal, flossing at least once a day if not |
| health. | | | | more, and seeing your dentist at least twice every |
| Those of you, who are not familiar with the term | | | | year. |
| periodontal disease, may recognize it as gum disease. | | | | A healthy balanced diet, regular exercise and |
| It is a bacterial infection of the gums, bone and | | | | abstinence from smoking are all key factors to |
| periodontal ligaments that support the teeth and hold | | | | maintain or improve your heart's health. Try to avoid |
| them in the jaw. | | | | refined sugar as it is a haven for growing bacteria. If |
| Healthy gums and teeth are vital for a healthy body. | | | | you do eat something sweet, be sure to brush your |
| Since periodontal disease is a bacterial infection, it can | | | | teeth directly afterwards to remove the sugar |
| enter the blood stream and travel to major organs | | | | before the bacteria has a chance to move in. |
| where it will begin new infections in the body. The | | | | Remember, good health pertains to every part of |
| heart is one of the most susceptible organs for this | | | | your body. Your teeth are not only the bright ivories |
| type of bacterial infection. | | | | that give you your wonderful smile, they are the |
| Risks for heart disease include smoking, obesity, high | | | | gateway to your health. |
| cholesterol and high blood pressure. Now more and | | | | |