February is American Heart Month and National Children’s Dental Health Month What do these two awareness campaigns may have in common? Studies have identified links between poor oral health and heart disease.
Poor oral health increases the number of bacteria in your mouth; along with tooth decay, bacteria can spread through the bloodstream to other parts of your body. If the bacteria reach your heart, the higher the risk of suffering endocarditis, atherosclerosis, and stroke.
Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic diseases among children in the United States. More than half of children 6 to 8 years old have had at least one cavity. In Arizona, one in every three children has had one by their third birthday. If untreated, tooth decay can cause cavities, toothache, gum disease, and tooth loss.
A smile, the first thing we notice in others and others notice in us, impacts self-esteem and confidence for children and adults. However, a smile is more than just a facial expression. Teeth help us eat and talk too. Early tooth loss impairs speech development, affects the ability to chew foods properly, and jeopardizes learning.
We get two sets of teeth during our lives: baby/primary teeth and adult/permanent teeth. Often, parents underestimate the significant role primary teeth play in our overall health. This first set allows children to learn to chew, speak, and keep the space for permanent teeth. Protecting baby teeth prevents problems with permanent teeth and improves the chances of better health.
Wouldn’t you do everything possible to support your family’s oral health and avoid future heart problems? The good news is that cavities and the health problems they can cause are preventable. Here are some suggestions to support oral health:
Practice good oral hygiene:
- Brush twice daily with a soft bristle toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride.
- Floss daily.
- Replace your toothbrush every three months
Regular dental visits:
- Pregnancy increases the chances of gum disease and cavities. Visit your dentist before the baby’s arrival.
- Children should visit a dentist by their first birthday.
- All family members should discuss with their dentist how frequently they must schedule their dental checks.
- Ask your dentist about water fluoride where you live, dental sealants, and mouthwashes.
- Avoid negative or scary comments about dental visits. Help your child develop a pleasant attitude toward dental care.
Eat healthily:
- Maintain a balanced diet that includes vegetables, fruits, proteins, and grains.
- Avoid sticky and hard foods that can harm your teeth.
- Limit your sugar intake.
By promoting good oral health habits, we are helping ourselves and our loved ones to live healthier lives. Let’s keep smiling, knowing that we are doing our best to keep our hearts healthy and loving our family.