Dentist Los Angeles, CA – Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Attack

Gum Disease Contributes to Heart Attack

While several theories currently exist to explain the link between periodontal disease and heart disease, one thing is clear – the health of your mouth directly relates to the health of your body. Like a window to the rest of your body, the health of your mouth can significantly affect your overall health. So when it comes time for your dental appointment don’t skip out. Help protect your heart by taking proper care of your dental health to further prevent the development of gum disease.

Dr. Shervin Louie, dentist Los Angeles, places a strong emphasis on the importance of proper oral health care to protect you from heart attack and even stroke. It has been stated that the oral bacteria can affect the heart when entering the blood stream, attaching to fatty plaques in the coronary arteries and contributing to clot formation, which can obstruct normal blood flow. This obstruction can restrict the amount of nutrients and oxygen required for the heart to function properly, resulting in a heart attack.

Researchers continue to find that those who have periodontal (gum) disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from a heart attack as those without gum disease. What does this mean for you? Dr. Louie, Los Angeles family dentist, urges you to maintain your regular appointments with his office in order to further prevent the development of gum disease. With routine dental checkups, you can ensure that your mouth is healthy, and, if it isn’t, Dr. Louie can help get you on the right track to further prevent systemic complications such as heart attack or stroke.

If you are at risk for heart disease, Dr. Shervin Louie, Beverly Hills dentist, offers helpful tips to help save your life:

• Lose weight if you are overweight
• Eat healthy foods
• Exercise regularly
• Control any conditions that increase risk
• Brush twice a day
• Floss daily
• Maintain regular visits with his office

If you keep your mouth clean, it is very hard for bacteria that cause periodontal disease to get started. You will even experience fewer fillings, healthier gums, and a brighter smile. So begin now and take the next step towards a healthy smile and body.

For further information on how to properly care for your teeth to prevent gum disease and protect your body from systemic complications, contact Dr. Shervin Louie, your dentist in Beverly Hills.