​Everyone knows that diet and exercise directly impact heart health. However, there is another daily habit that also plays a role in preventing your risk of heart disease, and it involves your toothbrush.

​Thousands of studies have shown that poor dental health could be a sign of poor heart health. Many scientists, are now forming the opinion that the reverse is also true. In addition to looking and feeling your best, you now have even more of an incentive to maintain good dental hygiene: a healthy heart.

How Can Gum Disease Affect Your Heart?

Gum disease is caused by bacteria that causes your gums and the tissue around your teeth to become swollen and painful. This bacteria can enter your bloodstream causing an infection which can then affect your blood vessels. When arteries become inflamed or narrowed due to this bacteria, the risk for heart disease increases significantly.

​Although the exact science is still unknown, researchers are certain that there is a direct correlation between heart disease, inflammation, and dental bacteria. When you maintain healthy habits like regular brushing, flossing, dental cleanings and check-ups and overall oral health you are lowering your risk of other health complications.

​Studies have also been able to demonstrate that individuals who take care of their teeth are more likely to live a healthier lifestyle than those who don’t. They are more likely to avoid smoking and excessive drinking and they are also more likely to eat a well-balanced diet and exercise regularly. All these practices lower your risk for heart disease.

Conversely, several health conditions will have negative effects on dental health and translate into heart problems.

Here are just a few of these conditions and their impact on your dental health:

Cancer: Chemotherapy and radiation treatments can damage cells in your mouth and gums. They can also harm salivary glands.

Diabetes: inflammation can cause cavities and gum disease

Acid Reflux: stomach acid causes tooth erosion

If you have or have had any of these conditions, be sure to tell your dentist so you can come up with a plan to keep your mouth healthy. Also, be vigilant with your brushing and flossing schedule to prevent problems later.

How to Keep Your Smile Healthy 

There are several ways that you can make sure that you are doing everything you can to make your mouth as clean as it can be. First, brush at least twice a day, after every meal is even better. Next, do not forget to floss. Removing food that your toothbrush cannot reach reduces your risk of cavities, bad breath, and gingivitis. Also, visit the dentist regularly. Routine cleanings should be scheduled every 6 months and additional screenings like X Rays should be done once a year.

Take some of the following additional steps to set yourself up for a healthy future:

• Quit smoking
• Drink fluoridated water and brushing with fluoride toothpaste
• Drink plenty of water
• Limit alcoholic drinks

If you have any questions about your dental or heart health, you can always ask your dentist. Show some extra care to your mouth and your heart by following these healthy tips to keep your hygiene in tip-top shape.