Visits to the Hygienist Key to Reducing Heart Disease Risk
A study conducted in Taiwan has revealed that regular trips to the dental hygienist can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.
The study revealed that regular scale and polish treatments can reduce the risk of heart attacks by 24% and the risk of strokes by 13%. Oral health diseases are associated with poor oral hygiene but even brushing twice a day is sometimes not sufficient to prevent problems and visiting a dental hygienist will help to prevent gum disease and decay.
Other studies have also linked gum disease to strokes and heart attacks, as periodontal disease increases the level of inflammatory bacteria in the bloodstream and inflammation is associated with diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Natasha Stewart, Senior Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said that it was important to look after your teeth and gums, as well as eating a healthy diet and doing plenty of exercise.
In order to keep the gums and teeth healthy, it is essential to stick to a good daily oral hygiene routine, which should include brushing the teeth twice a day, rinsing with mouthwash and using dental floss. Flossing is important because it helps to remove plaque and bacteria from the corners of the mouth, the cracks between the teeth and the gum line.
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