A HEARTFELT CONNECTION WHY EVERY BRUSHING SESSION IS A STEP TOWARD A HEALTHIER HEART February isn’t just about Valentine’s Day — it’s also American Heart Month, a time to focus on heart health. But what if we told you the journey to a healthier heart might just begin with your smile? Research has revealed a fascinating connection between dental health and heart health, making oral hygiene more important than ever.
Watching your children transition into teenagers is a challenging experience for any parent. Your little girl has traded in her dolls for makeup, and your son would rather spend time with friends than throw a ball around the yard with you. As teens grow, parents have to adapt and adjust to the changes. It won’t always be easy, especially as arguments and disagreements may become more common. Still, you can make this situation easier on yourself by preparing for the changes and adopting helpful strategies. Here are three ways to maintain your relationship with your children as they progress through their teenage years. PROVIDE YOUR CHILDREN WITH NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO FIND THEIR PASSIONS. Your children are in the self-discovery stage of their lives, so it’s vital they get a chance to explore hobbies and activities that interest them. Ask them what they want to do with their free time, and enroll them in extracurricular activities that align with their interests. Be encouraging and supportive, and you’ll quickly see improvements in their mood and your relationship. BE OPEN-MINDED. Our children’s hobbies, interests, and even some personality traits can change as they progress through their teenage years. Be curious about their developing habits and try to involve yourself in activities they enjoy. This extends to discussions about their future. As adulthood approaches, talk with your kids about their career prospects and interests. They might have a different plan than you imagined, but this is when you need to be open-minded and supportive — it will strengthen your relationship immensely. UNDERSTAND THAT YOU WON’T SEE THEM AS OFTEN. The teenage years are when our kids start yearning for independence. As long as they’re staying out of trouble, let them explore the world around them. They’ll want to spend more time with their friends, visit places like the mall or movie theater without you, and explore romantic relationships. This is a normal part of growing up, and as parents, we should expect and respect the change. STAY CONNECTED DURING THEIR TRANSFORMATIVE YEARS THE TEENAGE TRANSITION
THE MOUTH-HEART CONNECTION Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming a life every 33 seconds. These staggering numbers remind us why heart health deserves our attention. But here’s the twist: Your mouth and heart are more closely connected than you might think.
Your mouth is home to millions of bacteria, and while not all are harmful, poor oral health can allow the bad ones to thrive. Gum disease, or periodontal
disease, is a prime culprit. Studies reveal that people with gum disease are 2–3 times more likely to experience a heart attack or stroke. Why? Bacteria in your mouth can enter your bloodstream, travel to your heart, and trigger inflammation — a key factor in cardiovascular disease. For older adults, this connection is particularly concerning. Many seniors already face chronic conditions like heart disease, and neglecting oral health can add fuel to the fire. IT’S ALL CONNECTED! Think of your body as a well-orchestrated symphony, with your heart playing the lead role. Every part of the circulatory system is interconnected, including your gums. Ignoring oral health isn’t just a dental issue — it’s a systemic risk. In fact, people with gum disease are 28% more likely to suffer a heart attack. Taking care of your mouth is taking care of your whole body. The good news? Protecting your heart can be as simple as maintaining a good oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and scheduling routine dental checkups help keep harmful bacteria at bay. It’s also vital to know if you have a history of heart issues or gum disease, so be sure to let your dentist and physician know so they can tailor your care. READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP? Your smile is more powerful than you think — it’s a gateway to better overall health. If you’re ready to give your heart and your teeth the care they deserve, we’re here to help. Contact our office today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you!
2 • WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM
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