MAKING ME WHOLE: Your Mouth is Connected to Your Heart
When was the last time that you went to the dentist for a checkup? Are you that person that loathes the thought of getting your teeth drilled and filled? Do you have a fear of needles? You may want to continue reading and rethink your decision the next time that you want to skip that office visit or postpone your appointment until you are in dental pain.
Everyone knows that in order to properly clean the outside of your body, it generally requires a water source, a scrubbing motion, and a cleaning agent. However, to maintain and ensure that your body is in check, an annual visit to your primary care physician is also recommended. If there are problems that are detected, your physician will order further tests or refer you to a specialist. Your mouth is not exempt from this process. It is recommended that one brush in the morning, at night and after meals, floss daily, and receive a six-month professional cleaning/exam. The exam and cleaning are necessary in order to maintain your oral health and check for any dental problems that may arise.
Gingivitis is the early inflammation stage of gum disease, of plaque build-up under the gum line. At this point, the gum disease is reversible. If gingivitis is not resolved by good oral hygiene, a healthy diet and non-smoking habits, it may turn into the irreversible stage of periodontal disease, which is the state of bone and gum destruction. Some warning signs may include:
Red, tender/swollen gums
Bleeding gums while brushing and flossing
Gums that pull away from your teeth
Chronic bad breath or bad taste in your mouth
Loose teeth or teeth separating from each other
Scientific research has exposed an association of the heart and mouth with its link of periodontal disease to heart disease. Some researchers have suggested that bacteria from infected gums can dislodge, enter the bloodstream, attach to blood vessels and increase the likelihood of heart disease. In The Journal of Immunology (June 15, 2006), Harokopakis et al research revealed that one of the many oral bacteria, P. gingivalis, found in periodontal disease provided a plausible inflammatory pathway that may contribute to hardening of blood vessels.
So, please do your mouth and heart a great favor. Do not wait to see the dentist until you are in discomfort or pain. Please follow a nutritional diet, adhere to good oral hygiene habits, and see your dental health care provider regularly. Happy teeth lead to a happy heart. :)
Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. I Corinthians 6:19-20 (NLT)
Editor’s Note: If you’re a medical professional and would like to join the cadre of contributors to this health and wellness feature, please contact Cynny Anderson, CynnyArlene@verizon.net.
