How Your Mouth Affects Heart Health
February is Heart Health Month. Each valentine heart we see can remind us to protect our physical hearts by making good food choices, getting regular physical activity, and managing stress. The American Heart Association (AHA) provides many tips and tools for heart-healthy living.
You might be surprised to see oral health on the AHA website. Some types of bacteria that live in your mouth can get into your bloodstream and cause problems in other parts of your body, like your heart. Research also shows that gum disease may be connected to heart problems like high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. Nearly half (46%) of all adults aged 30 years or older show signs of gum disease, according to the CDC.
February also happens to be Children’s Oral Health Month. Good cleaning habits, started early in life, protect much more than teeth. Create happy hearts this month by practicing and sharing these tips for a happy mouth.
Caring for babies’ mouths
Before your baby has teeth, wipe their gums with a soft, clean cloth after the first morning feeding and right before bed. This wipes away bacteria.
When their first teeth come in, brush them twice a day with a soft, small toothbrush and plain water.
If your baby has teething pain, rub their gums with a clean finger or give them cool things to chew on, like a wet washcloth or refrigerated spoons, pacifiers, or teething rings. Don’t put them in the freezer – that makes them too cold for baby’s mouth.
Take your baby for their first dentist appointment by their first birthday. Remember, even small baby teeth can get cavities!
Caring for children’s mouths
Teach your child to brush at least twice a day. They should use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and always spit it out instead of swallow.
Help your child brush until they have good brushing skills. To promote independence, you can let your child brush 1st and then you brush after them to be sure you are reaching all areas of the mouth.
Limit sugary food and drinks, like soda. Never put a baby/toddler to bed with a bottle.
Make sure your child sees the dentist twice a year.
Talk to your dentist or doctor about whether your child needs extra fluoride or dental sealants.
Caring for adult mouths
Brush twice a day with toothpaste that has fluoride.
Floss between your teeth.
See your dentist at least twice a year for routine checkups. If you’re pregnant, see a dentist (it’s safe!) before you deliver.
Choose water or milk over soda, juice, or sports drinks.
Talk with your dentist/provider for help to stop using tobacco products and alcohol as both lead to a higher risk of oral cancers.
Additional Sources: National Maternal & Child Oral Health Resource Center, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, MyHealthfinder, Office of Head Start, Medlineplus