The link between healthy teeth and a healthy heart Published Feb. 27, 2015 By Lt. Col. Rene Saenz 509th Medical Operations Squadron WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Research suggests there is a link between healthy gums, healthy teeth and a healthy heart. Daily flossing and good oral hygiene help promote healthy teeth and gums, which in turn can help fight heart disease. Without proper oral hygiene, including daily flossing, your oral cavity begins accumulating a soft, sticky bacterial film called plaque. Eventually, the bacteria within the plaque produce acids and begin to destroy the outer protective barrier of teeth, called enamel. This will cause the gums to become irritated and chronically inflamed causing them to bleed. Over time, plaque will start to harden into a crusty yellow-brown looking substance, called tarter, that sticks to teeth. Tarter promotes the accumulation of more plaque and often leads to chronic halitosis or bad breath. Over time, the lack of proper oral hygiene practices may lead to gingivitis, periodontal disease and tooth loss. For years, scientists have theorized a correlation between a healthy mouth and a healthy heart exists. Today, there is strong evidence proving this correlation. Research has shown there is a direct link between gum and cardiovascular diseases. Although exact reasons as to why healthy gums and teeth promote a healthy heart are still being investigated, it is speculated chronic inflammation and bacteria that enter the bloodstream from the mouth may actually play a key role toward the promotion of cardiovascular disease. Many of my patients do not floss regularly, because they complain their gums start bleeding. It is important to make sure flossing is done correctly. Gums that are not stimulated regularly will bleed. A recent survey indicated only 17 percent of the American population flosses on a daily basis. Patients may do a great job brushing, but by not flossing, inflammation will begin to build up in-between the teeth causing gums to bleed easily. Flossing teeth is not a difficult process. A helpful tip is to make sure to slide the floss under the gum line and curl it around each tooth. I use the analogy that flossing is very similar to shining your shoes. Most patients also complain they just don't have the time to floss their teeth. Flossing your teeth right before bedtime is an easy solution. It is important to include flossing as part of your daily oral hygiene routine. At the end of the day, this practice may help keep your teeth and your heart healthy for years to come.