You probably know already that taking care of your heart means cutting down on salt, eating healthily and exercising regularly but did you know that brushing and flossing your teeth could save you from a heart attack?

Experts have found that those with the worst blockages in their arteries had the most severe gum disease and there is now growing evidence of a connection between poor dental health, gum disease and heart disease.

It is not clear how gum disease may trigger heart problems, although it is thought that bacteria released from the infected gums are the key. The bacteria enter the bloodstream where they may activate the immune system, making artery walls inflamed and narrow, or attach directly to fatty deposits already present in the arteries and this causes further narrowing.

More research needs to be done but the very fact that a link is suspected should encourage us all to take better care of our teeth. So first of all buy a good quality toothbrush with soft, rounded bristles. Electric toothbrushes are fine too. Then it’s time to do the following:

• Make sure you brush for at least two minutes, twice a day after breakfast and before bed. Anything less than that and you’re looking for trouble.
• Brush each and every tooth. Use a gentle, circular motion and massage the gum as you go. Brush the tops of your teeth and don’t forget to do both the outside (near your cheek) and the inside (by the tongue). Don’t overdo it. Your aim is not to polish the teeth but to remove bacteria, so scrubbing hard isn’t necessary and can thin the enamel on teeth and, over time, cause your gums to recede.
• You should also remember to floss at least once a day. It’s not fun, but unfortunately it’s necessary if you want to clean those hard-to-reach spaces between your teeth.
• Don’t forget to book in to see your hygienist every six to 12 months for a thorough clean.
• And finally, it goes without saying that you should steer clear of sugary, sticky foods and eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, oily fish and vitamin C rich fruit and vegetables.

Research indicates that vitamin C may help decrease your chances of developing gingivitis, inflammation in the gums, which can cause dental disease. It is also known that Co-enzyme Q10 can help with bleeding gums.

This entry was posted on Thursday, November 1st, 2007 at 2:40 am and is filed under Heart Disease. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.