SHARE THE LOVE THI S MONTH
Why Flossing and Brushing Can Be Important for Your Heart Health Love Your Teeth, Love Your Heart Every February the American Heart Association recognizes American Heart Health Month, encouraging citizens across the U.S. to eat heart-healthy foods, get exercise, and be tested for heart disease and conditions. So, what — if anything — does this have to do with your oral health? According to science, a lot. Both the heart and the gums suffer when inflamed. Inflammation of your heart can lead to hardened arteries; this disrupts the flow of blood to and from your heart and increases your chance of heart attack and stroke. Meanwhile, inflamed gums, which are often sore and swollen, could be a sign of either gingivitis or periodontitis (gum disease). While both require necessary action, it’s periodontitis that is most commonly linked with heart disease. Your gums are riddled with thousands of tiny blood vessels and a very thin layer of tissue protecting them. When your gums are infected with periodontitis, or gum disease, that bacteria can seep into the bloodstream and travel to the heart, where inflammation settles into the arteries and creates the hardening effect.
4 Ways to Support Your Loved Ones This Valentine’s Day
Simply put: When there is evidence of gum disease, there is often heart disease.
Every Valentine’s Day, people want to find the best ways to show their partner or even a close friend how much they care. It is easy to get sucked into thinking you have to give them the most expensive or elaborate present you can find, but sometimes, the most meaningful gifts are the simplest. Here are four easy ways to show your loved ones how much you care this February. A TEXT A DAY Knowing someone has your back throughout the year, no matter how difficult things can get, is a great source of support and love. In addition to the usual communication you share with your loved one, add in a supportive text each day, whether it’s simply letting them know you’re thinking of them or wishing them luck on a presentation or interview. The best part about these texts is that they can be sent year-round. A MORNINGMESSAGE BOARD Whiteboards are fun to draw on and make great calendars, but they can also be used to share heartfelt messages with your roommates or spouse. Writing positive messages like, “I hope you have a wonderful day!” or “You matter!” can make all the difference. Waking up to a loving note from someone they care about could mean the world to them and shift their entire mood for the day. A DAILY JOURNAL ENTRY February and March are usually when New Year’s resolutions begin to falter. To encourage yourself and your loved one, consider starting a daily journal. Leave a journal where you both have access to it and write positive messages inside for the other person. This acknowledgment of hard work is exactly what you both need to continue pursuing your goals this year. RANDOMGIFTS You don’t have to wait for a birthday, Christmas, or Valentine’s Day to give your loved one a gift. Buying small gifts lets your friend or spouse know you’ve been thinking about them. Whether it’s a treat they enjoy, a book, or even a small gift card, these thoughtful gestures are sure to make them smile.
Flossing and brushing your teeth — and effective oral hygiene habits — can prevent gum disease, which can limit the bacteria that travel to your heart through your mouth. Regular checkups, both with your dentist and doctor, are imperative to monitor the health of your gums and your heart. What’s more, the components of a heart-healthy lifestyle can have a significant impact on your teeth. A heart-healthy diet of whole grains, raw vegetables, and lean protein sends vital nutrients to your heart while cleaning and supplementing care for your teeth. And there are studies published that find regular physical activity can lower your risk of periodontal disease, and, as we all know, exercise is key to preventing heart disease. So, when you think heart-smart this February, don’t forget to check on your teeth, too. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Jelinek and his team by calling 703-584-5996 or visiting NorthernVirginiaDental.com.
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