Hypertension & The Link To Poor Oral Hygiene

A research study out of Korea, perio.org, has recently found a link between poor oral hygiene and high blood pressure. The study focused on people who reportedly did not brush or floss their teeth on a regular basis as well as their use of mouthwash.  Periodontal disease is linked to inflammation, which enters the blood stream. The article suggests that further research needs to be conducted in order determine a direct link, but for now they have found that individuals who have excellent oral hygiene habits and do not have periodontal disease are less likely to have high blood pressure than not.

 

To prevent periodontal disease brushing two times a day is critical to keep your gums healthy. Brushing help removes food from the teeth that will decrease the risk of dental decay and cavities. It also helps to decrease the buildup of plaque on the surface of the teeth.

Flossing one time a day is the single most important oral hygiene habit in order to remove food from between the teeth. There is not other single activity that can improve the strength of the gums and decrease the risk of periodontal disease. It also is the only way to remove food from being stuck between the teeth. The longer food is on the gums,” says Dr. DenineRice, “the more likely the risk of periodontal disease.”

While there may not be a current direct link of high blood pressure and periodontal disease, it is critical to keep your mouth and smile healthy by brushing & flossing. “Why take the risk of high blood pressure when you can prevent it,” says Dr. Rice.

6 Dental Habits That Can Save Your Smile

Why fight it, you know you want a beautiful smile that outshines everyone else. Follow these simple six rules and enhance your smile. Suggests Dr. Rice, "While you may find habits hard to break, a little change can go a long way in saving your smile." You only have one set of teeth, don’t lose them to bad habits

1. Don't clench or grind, or if you do, wear a night guard to protect your teeth. Night guards can be custom made by your dentist in order to provide the most comfortable fit. 

2. Use gum that contains xylitol between brushing and flossing. Xylitol is a natural product that does not do damage to the enamel of your teeth the way that sugar does. 

3. Brush, floss or floss, brush after every meal. Brushing and flossing removes build-up of food that attacks the enamel of the teeth and causes decay. 

4. Don't chew ice or use your teeth as utility instruments. While it may seem easier to open up the package with your teeth, in the long run you’ll help your teeth if you get a pair of scissors instead. 

5. See your dentist or hygienist as recommended. "Don’t wait until you have a dental emergency to visit them," says Dr. Denine Rice. 

6. Use an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes can ensure you do a better cleaning and don’t miss any hard to reach spots, especially if you have dexterity issues.

My Gums Have Receded. Can I still Get Implants?

In order for implants to be successfully placed you have to have a certain length of bone below the gum tissue, and this bone has to be healthy. If you have gum disease or your gums have receded it may make it difficult for implants to be placed. Nevertheless don’t fret because you are not without options. Dr. Denine Rice and her team can assess your smile, bone loss, and gums to determine the best solution to fit your needs. Fixing your smile is not only a cosmetic choice, but it is also recommended to improve your overall health. 

You may need bone grafting or gum graft surgery in order to build up the area around your gums to improve the fit of your implant. The gums and bone allow your implants to be held in place and have a secure fit. If your bone level has receded, Dr. Rice will recommend replacing the bone with artificial bone, if your gums have receded, it can, then require you to have tissue removed from the palate of your mouth and placed around the teeth where your gums are at their lowest point. Without this secure fit, your implant will not have the longevity you would wish for. 

Gum recession and bone loss does not exclude you from the option of cosmetically enhancing a beautiful smile, but it will require a potential extra step.