Researchers  from Taiwan reported this week that people who had their teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year had a 24% lower risk of heart attack and a 13% lower risk of stroke compared to those who did not visit the dentist. Drs. Emily Chen and Hsin-Bang Leu reviewed medical  data on over 51,000 adults who had their teeth professionally cleaned and compared them to people who had never had their teeth cleaned. “Protection from heart disease and stroke was more pronounced in participants who got tooth scaling at least once a year” said Dr. Chen. She suggested that having a dental cleaning removes inflammation-causing bacteria that can lead to heart disease.

The bacteria associated with gum disease has previously been linked to heart problems and this study confirms the importance of good oral health for overall health  Keeping your smile  healthy requires good home care, brushing and flossing,  plus it requires regular visits to your dental hygienist. Home care cannot remove all of the bacteria that lurks below the gum line so a visit every six months is needed for those with healthy gums. If you have experienced gum disease then your recall visits will be scheduled more often. If you have been avoiding the dentist because of anxiety or fear ask about sedation dentistry.

Appointments are filling fast since we are quickly approaching the end of the year. Contact StoneRidge Dental Care serving the Columbus, OH area at 614-476-6696 today to schedule your next visit.