Taking care of your teeth does more than give you a bright smile. It also helps keep your whole body healthy, including your heart. In a recent interview on Bayou Time, Dr. Kalisha Hanley, a dentist at Teche Health in Morgan City, explained how oral care affects the rest of the body and why regular dental visits are so important.
Taking Care of Your Teeth Helps Your Body
Your mouth is the gateway to your body. When food mixes with bacteria, it forms plaque. If plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar. This can cause tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease. “Plaque and tartar are like the adversaries of the mouth,” Dr. Hanley said. They can cause swelling and bleeding, letting bacteria enter your bloodstream and affect other parts of your body.
The Link Between Dental Health and Heart Health
The health of your mouth is closely linked to the health of your heart. When gums are unhealthy, bacteria from your mouth can enter your bloodstream. This can cause inflammation in the blood vessels, which makes it harder for your heart to work properly. Over time, this inflammation may increase the risk of heart disease, clogged arteries, and even strokes.
Advanced gum disease, called periodontitis, is especially risky. Harmful bacteria can travel through the blood and attach to the heart or blood vessels. This can lead to infections like endocarditis, which affects the inner lining of the heart. In people who already have heart conditions, untreated dental problems can make things worse, including contributing to heart failure.
Even without serious gum disease, poor oral hygiene—skipping brushing, flossing, or dental visits—can raise the risk of heart problems. Researchers have found that people with gum disease are more likely to have clogged arteries, high blood pressure, and heart attacks.
That’s why dentists often ask for a medical history and work with doctors to keep patients safe. Taking care of your teeth and gums is not just about avoiding cavities—it’s also an important way to protect your heart.
More Ways Dental Care Helps Your Body
Dental care helps more than just your teeth. For example, people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to get gum disease. Regular cleanings reduce bacteria in the mouth, which can help keep blood sugar under control. “Good oral hygiene supports overall health,” Dr. Hanley said.
Oral care is especially important for pregnant women. Gum disease and poor oral hygiene have been linked to preterm birth and low birth weight. Pregnancy can make gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation. Dentists recommend more frequent cleanings during pregnancy to protect both mother and baby.
What to Expect During a Dental Visit
Dr. Hanley emphasizes the importance of patient-centered care. She works with each person to set goals, whether it’s improving a smile, reducing bad breath, or treating gum disease.
Routine cleanings are an essential part of dental health. There are two types: regular cleanings (prophylaxis) and deep cleanings (scaling and root planing). Regular cleanings target plaque and tartar above the gum line, while deep cleanings remove bacteria below the gum line. Patients also get tips on brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash at home to keep their mouths healthy.
Dental Care for Those Without Teeth
Even people with dentures or missing teeth need dental care. Dentists still check for oral cancer, which doesn’t depend on how many teeth you have. Dentures may need adjustments to help with chewing, talking, and keeping your face looking healthy. Without care, jawbone loss can change your facial structure and make you look older.
Take the First Step
Dr. Hanley reminds everyone: “It doesn’t matter how long it’s been since your last dental visit. Coming to the dentist is a fresh start. Together, we can create a plan to optimize your oral health and support your overall wellness, including your heart health.”
For residents in Morgan City, Teche Health provides expert dental care focused on both prevention and treatment. By addressing dental health proactively, patients can enjoy stronger teeth, healthier gums, and a reduced risk of cardiovascular issues.
