February is American Heart Month, a great time to focus on keeping your heart healthy. Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the U.S., affecting men and women from all backgrounds. It's especially important for women, as one in three are diagnosed with heart disease each year.

But don't worry, there are some simple and trusty ways to help reduce your risk, and they’re right there on your bathroom counter—your toothbrush and floss! Believe it or not, there’s a strong link between your oral health and heart health, with chronic inflammation being the common factor.

Habits like smoking and conditions like high blood pressure can cause inflammation in your heart. Similarly, inflammation from dental bacteria can lead to heart infections, known as endocarditis. The good news is, by keeping up with your oral health routine and learning more about heart disease, you can do your best to stay healthy and get the right treatment if needed.

Key Takeaways:

• Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the U.S., affecting both men and women.
• Women are particularly at risk of heart disease, with one in three diagnosed annually.
• Smoking and high blood pressure contribute to heart inflammation.
• Dental bacteria can cause heart infections like endocarditis.
• Maintaining oral health and understanding heart disease can help reduce risks.

Heart Health Facts

• One in every five deaths in the United States was caused by heart disease in 2022.
• Nearly 18.6 million people across the globe died of cardiovascular disease in 2019
• Almost half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, which puts them at risk for heart disease and stroke.
• Between 2019 and 2020, heart disease led to a whopping $252.2 billion in healthcare costs, medications, and lost productivity.

The Connection Between Oral Health and Heart Health

The bacteria that cause gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can make their way into blood vessels all over your body. Interestingly, these bacteria have been discovered in the fatty build-up that clogs arteries and in blood clots from folks who have had heart attacks. Plus, there are several factors that increase the risk of heart disease, like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity, which are more common in people with gum disease, according to the American Journal of Preventive Cardiology. Here's some more info to keep in mind:

• People with gum disease are 28% more likely to suffer a heart attack than those without dental problems.
• Poor oral health is a risk factor for human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which can make us more susceptible to having a heart attack.
• Inflammation and bacteria from teeth and gums can travel through the bloodstream to the heart and brain.
• People with gum disease have two to three times the risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiovascular event.

Preventing Heart Disease

It's helpful to be aware of the signs, symptoms, and risk factors of heart disease, especially if it runs in your family. The good news is that heart disease is often preventable with a healthy lifestyle. Try adding these tips to your daily routine:

• Switch Up Your Snacks: Swap out those processed munchies like chips and cookies for heart-healthy goodies like almonds, berries, and dark chocolate. These treats are loaded with antioxidants and healthy fats that help keep your blood pressure in check and give your heart a boost.
• Keep Moving: Aim for at least two and a half hours of moderate exercise each week. Activities like power walking, cycling, and jumping jacks are fantastic for your heart and lungs. Plus, cardio exercises help lower the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and diabetes.
• Catch Enough Zzz's: Skimping on sleep can raise your heart disease risk, so try to get at least seven hours a night. Cut down on screen time before bed, create a cozy, dark space, and stick to a regular sleep schedule.
• Breathe Easy: Stress can take a toll on your heart, so try the "4-7-8 breathing" technique to relax and lower your blood pressure. Breathe in for four seconds, hold for seven, and breathe out for eight. Do this daily for a stronger, more resilient heart.
• Check In with Your Doctor: Make sure to schedule an annual checkup with your doctor. To get the most out of your visit, bring along any questions and a list of your current medications. Always chat with your doctor before making any changes to your lifestyle or meds.

Taking Care of your Oral Health

Keeping up with a good oral health routine should be a breeze, but we all know how life can get in the way sometimes. By sticking to it and making oral care a part of your daily routine, you can do it! Here's what your routine should look like:

• Brush twice a day: This removes plaque-forming bacteria.
• Floss once per day. Research shows flossing not only helps your mouth but can also benefit your heart and brain health. Regular flossing is being associated with a significantly lower risk of certain forms of stroke and atrial fibrillation (AFib).
• Eat a diet rich in essential nutrients. Also reduce your intake of processed food that has been precooked, canned, frozen, or packaged. It usually contains excess sugar, salt, or fat.
• Avoid smoking and tobacco use. Cut down on dipping and chewing tobacco, cigarettes, vaping, or hookah. They can affect your gums and increase your risk of heart disease.
• Talk with your dentist. They can give you recommendations to ensure your care is tailored to your health needs.
• Share your medical history. Talk to your dentist about current conditions and any recent behavior changes in oral health care routines or symptoms.
• Take your medications as prescribed Discuss the side effects of any medications, over the counter or prescribed, with your dentist and doctor.

Keeping a healthy heart and smile go hand in hand. By incorporating simple habits like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and diligent oral care you can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease. Remember, your toothbrush and floss are powerful tools in your health care arsenal. As we celebrate American Heart Month, let's commit to these small yet impactful changes for a healthier heart and a happier life.

Want to have Solstice benefits? Call our sales team at 877.760.2247 or email Sales@SolsticeBenefits.com

Already have Solstice benefits? See your plan details by going to https://www.mysmile365.com/ or calling us at 1.877.760.2247.