Healthy Mouth, Healthy Heart: Why Oral Care Matters for Your Heart

 

Is your mouth really connected to your heart? It might sound surprising, but skipping good oral care doesn’t just affect your teeth and gums. Your heart could be in danger, too.

 

You might think: A little plaque buildup or inflamed gums can’t possibly harm my heart, right? Think again.

 

First, people with moderate or advanced gum disease face a higher risk of developing heart disease than those with healthy gums.

 

Bacteria and germs from your mouth can enter your bloodstream and affect your heart. When they reach the heart, they can stick to damaged areas, causing inflammation. According to Mayo Clinic, this may lead to conditions like endocarditis, an infection of the heart’s inner lining. The American Heart Association also links oral bacteria to other heart problems, such as atherosclerosis (clogged arteries) and strokes, due to inflammation.

Second, the state of your oral health can alert doctors to potential health problems, including heart-related conditions.

 

If you're planning to book a consultation with our dentist in Lynnwood, WA, it's important to disclose any medical conditions you may have, as well as any medications or supplements you are taking. This will help our dentist in Lynnwood, WA, identify any potential risks during your dental treatment.

 

Warning signs

 

According to the American Association of Periodontology (AAP), you may have gum disease, even in its early stages, if you notice the following symptoms:

 

●     Your gums are red, swollen, and tender

●     Your gums bleed when eating, brushing, or flossing

●     You see pus or other signs of infection around your gums and teeth

●     Your gums appear to be receding

●     You frequently have bad breath or a lingering bad taste in your mouth

●     Some of your teeth are loose.

 

Who is at risk?

 

People with gum issues like gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease are at a higher risk of heart disease, especially if these conditions are undiagnosed or untreated. Bacteria from gum infections can enter the bloodstream, stick to blood vessels, and raise the risk of cardiovascular problems. Even without visible gum inflammation, poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup can lead to gum disease. These bacteria can also travel into the blood, raising C-reactive protein levels, a sign of blood vessel inflammation, which increases the chances of heart disease and stroke.

 

Our reliable dentist in Lynnwood, WA advises regular dental check-ups and cleanings, as well as practicing proper oral hygiene at home. Call us at (425) 778 5665.

 

 

 

Source:

https://www.colgate.com/en-ph/oral-health/heart-disease/how-oral-health-and-heart-disease-are-connected-0115

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475

 

Expectations for Your First Orthodontic Consultation

 

Thinking about braces or aligners? Nervous about that first orthodontic appointment? You’re probably wondering what’s going to happen and if you’ll walk out with a mouth full of metal.

At Lynnwood Dental Studio, we've had our fair share of patients come in for their first orthodontic consultation and have seen many come out with a new outlook on their oral health.

 

Your first visit with dentists in Lynnwood: What to expect

 

Discussion of concerns and goals

 

The first thing that will happen at your orthodontic consultation is a discussion of your concerns or goals for your teeth and smile. This is an important first step because it allows our dentists in Lynnwood to understand what you are hoping to achieve.

 

The orthodontist will ask if you have observed any problems, like gaps, bite issues, or crooked teeth. Be sure to mention if you have trouble chewing, or if you experience jaw pain or even speech difficulties.

 

This is your chance to share what you prefer for treatment. If you'd like clear aligners instead of traditional braces, let your orthodontist know early. This can help them create a plan that works for you.

 

Comprehensive oral examination

 

After talking about your concerns, your orthodontist will carefully examine you to look for problems like misalignment, overbite, and underbite, overcrowding, as well as anything else that might impact your treatment. They may also assess your jaw position and facial symmetry to help create the exact model of your bite.

 

X-rays or scans

 

Your orthodontist will then use or 3D scans or digital X-rays to examine your teeth and jaw. These images show the position of your teeth as well as the condition of your roots, and how your jaw works. They can also uncover hidden problems that might affect your treatment plan.

 

Discussing treatment options and patient education

 

After reviewing your x-rays and completing the exam, your orthodontist will talk with you about the treatment options available. They’ll explain the pros and cons of each option to help you decide what works best for your needs and budget. They’ll also provide an estimated treatment timeline, which can depend on how complex your case is.

 

Call our dentists in Lynnwood at (425) 778 5665 and schedule your orthodontic consultation today!

 

 

Source:

https://www.lynnwooddentist.com/leave-us-a-review/blog/2025/3/5/what-to-expect-during-your-first-orthodontic-consultation/

 

5 Common Symptoms of Gum Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore

 

Periodontal disease, a serious form of gum disease, affects about 47.2% of American adults over 30. That’s nearly half the population at risk of issues like early tooth loss and other oral health problems.

 

The thing about gum disease? It often starts small, with symptoms easy to overlook. But ignoring these signs can lead to bigger health concerns.

 

What symptoms mean it’s time to search for an emergency dentist near me?

 

Halitosis

 

Persistent bad breath happens when harmful bacteria in your mouth multiply and release foul-smelling byproducts. These bacteria feed on sugary and starchy foods to grow and eventually produce unpleasant odors over time.

 

Does it necessarily mean you are suffering from gum disease? No, but it’s definitely a sign that something is not right in your mouth. If your bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene practices, it may be time to consult an emergency dentist near me.

 

Bleeding gums

 

Gums that are inflamed tend to be more sensitive and can bleed easily, especially when you floss or eat hard foods. If you see blood on your toothbrush or floss, it’s a good idea to reach out to a dental specialist. Treating the problem early can help stop it from turning into something more serious.

 

Oversensitive teeth can also cause bleeding gums. If you experience sharp pain when eating or drinking hot or cold foods, it’s important to address the issue with your dentist.

Inflamed gums

 

During the early stages of periodontal disease, your gums might feel sore and appear red. If the infection worsens, the gums can swell and may start to look purple. At this stage, it’s common to feel discomfort or pain in your gums.

 

Jaw pain

 

It's the jaw — what does it have to do with dental health, you might ask? Well, a lot actually. When gums start to recede and an infection spreads, it can reach the jawbone. Once the bacteria invade this area, they begin to break down the jawbone tissue. This damage can lead to loose teeth and discomfort, especially when chewing or eating.

 

Shrinking gums

 

In the later stages of periodontitis, bacteria cause the gums to shrink and pull back. This makes your teeth look longer as the gums recede.

 

Where should I go for a reliable emergency dentist near me in Lynnwood?

 

If any of the above symptoms occur, it is important to seek immediate help from a reliable emergency dentist near you. At Lynnwood Dental Studio, we offer emergency dental services to address any urgent oral health issues. Call us at (425) 778 5665 today!

 

 

Source:

https://www.goodmandentalcenter.com/blog/5-symptoms-of-periodontal-disease-and-why-you-shouldnt-ignore-them