Poor oral health can cause heart attack

Poor oral health is unlikely to be the primary cause for heart diseases. But poor oral health combined with other risk factors may contribute to heart disease. Bacteria on your teeth and gums could travel through your bloodstream and attach to fatty plaques in your arteries (atherosclerosis), making the plaques become more swollen (inflamed). If one of the plaques bursts and causes a blood clot to form, you can have a heart attack or stroke. Swollen gums can run you the same risk. Regardless of heart diseases, it’s important to take care of your teeth and gums for good health. Steps to good oral hygiene include:

Brushing your teeth at least twice daily Flossing your teeth daily Replacing your toothbrush at least every three months Getting regular dental checkups, as recommended by your dentist