You may have heard the phrase, “the mouth is the gateway to the body,” but do you know how your mouth directly impacts your heart health? In honor of World Heart Day on September 29th, we at Nashville Periodontal Group want to help you keep a healthy mouth and heart. World Heart Day was created to help inform people around the world that heart disease and stroke are two of the world’s leading causes of death, so periodontist Dr. Bill Akin and our team want to give you the knowledge to make informed, educated choices about your own health, and how gum disease can affect your heart.

How Are the Mouth and Heart Linked?
Your oral health and your heart are linked through the spread of bacteria and germs via the bloodstream. Gum disease is the most common oral disease that affects nearly 75% of all people to some degree, and if left unchecked, can be transferred through your blood to the heart. If this occurs, damage and inflammation can develop around your heart, leading to illnesses like stroke or heart diseases like endocarditis, or atherosclerosis. 

How To Tell if You Are Affected By Gum Disease
The surest way to find out if your mouth is affected by gum disease is to get a check-up by our local periodontist. Dental professionals can diagnose, treat and maintain conditions of gum disease and periodontists have gone through extra training to specialize in treating gum health. Other ways to identify your gum health is through self-exams at home. When checking your mouth for gum disease, look for:
•    Red, swollen gums
•    Bleeding around the gum line
•    Signs of pus or infection
•    Gums pulling away from the teeth
•    Constant bad breath
•    Loose or shifting teeth

Preventative Care
The best preventative oral health care begins at home. Make sure you are brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day. Eating a healthier diet free from sugary foods can help prevent cavities from forming and disease from taking hold. Visiting the dentist regularly will also ensure a healthy mouth. However, if you already show signs of gum disease, especially in the Nashville, TN area, scheduling an appointment with Dr. Akin as soon as possible can keep you from more serious concerns in the future—especially in preventing diseases or problems with your heart!

Ready for Your Check-Up? 
Call 615-800-3686 or schedule online for your gum disease consultation with Dr. Akin today!