A lifesaving reason to see your DENTIST

According to the American Dental Association, a fifth of people aged 75 and older haven’t seen a dentist in the past five years.

This shocking lack of oral hygiene can not only lead to serious damage to your teeth and gums…

But it could also target one of your body’s most vital organs.

Let’s take a look at another reason you’ll want to schedule that dentist appointment…

It’s one that could literally save your life!

According to an international research study out of Sweden, having gum disease significantly increases your risk of developing dangerous heart problems.

Studies have found that maintaining proper oral health has a positive impact on your overall health… after all, the mouth is the ‘gateway’ to your body—even your heart!

And this study highlights just how detrimental gum disease can be.

Researchers found that folks with gum disease were 49% MORE LIKELY to experience heart problems than people with healthy gums!

They also found that the more severe the gum disease, the greater the risk of deadly heart problems.

And how do you know if you have gum disease?

By SEEING YOUR DENTIST!

But there’s good news…

In addition to regular dentist visits, there are few things you can do to prevent gum disease… none of which require expensive gels or pastes.

Your first weapon is getting ‘back to basics.’ You know, the stuff your dentist has nagged you about for years.

There’s no substitute for optimal oral hygiene and gum health like brushing twice daily, and flossing regularly.

Also, make sure to replace your toothbrush regularly. I replace mine monthly and I opt for toothbrushes that have soft or extra-soft bristles.

And if you want to take your flossing to the next level, learn how adapted horizontal vertical flossing technique (AHVFT)—a method endorsed by the American Dental Association that can further breakdown harmful mouth bacteria.

To maintaining your mouth and heart,

Rachel Mace
Editor, eAlert with contributions from the research team

PS – Speaking of routine checkups, check out this afternoon’s eAlert on another vital screening that can prevent deadly disease.

Sources:

Moreira-Solis, Jocelyn. “Having gum disease increases risk for future heart problems.” https://studyfinds.org/gum-disease-heart-problems/

Washington Post. “Why going to the dentist is so hard for the elderly.” https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/heres-why-going-to-the-dentist-is-so-hard-for-the-elderly/2015/12/07/2f8050fc-8c80-11e5-baf4-bdf37355da0c_story.html