Dental implants improve your oral health and overall health. Since they allow you to expand your diet to include fruits, vegetables, and healthy proteins. However, when you think about dental implants, you probably aren’t relating it to heart health. The truth is that dental implants can go a long way to promoting excellent cardiovascular health. Continue reading to learn more about the link between the two.
Does Untreated Tooth Loss Impact Heart Health?
When tooth loss isn’t treated, it can lead to a variety of consequences that extend far beyond your oral health. Missing teeth can result in gum disease, poor nutrition, and an increased risk of oral infections. All of these things can increase your risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event.
Unfortunately, infections of the gums aren’t limited to the oral cavity. It is linked to all sorts of issues throughout the body, including diabetes and heart disease. Additionally, when you are unable to eat nutrient-rich foods, like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, due to missing teeth, you can’t give your heart and other vital organs the nutrients and support they need to stay strong and healthy. Oral health and general health are directly related. After all, the mouth is the gateway to the rest of the body.
Are Dental Implants Safe for Those Who Have Heart Conditions?
Dental implants are safe for most adults, including those with heart conditions. However, it is important that treatment is planned and coordinated accordingly between you dentist, cardiologist in you have one, and primary care provider. Before you can get dental implants, it’s important that you are evaluated for anesthesia tolerance, bleeding risks, and overall health. By taking all of the necessary precautions, dental implants can usually be placed safely without increasing cardiovascular risk.
Dental implants aren’t just for a gorgeous grin. They are a great way to restore the health of your smile after tooth loss. A healthy smile supports a healthy heart!
About the Author
Dr. Sammi Hadad earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of Detroit Mercy Dental School as well as a master’s in public health from the University of Utah. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment at her office in Brownstown Charter Township, visit her website or call (734) 479-4600.