A stroke is a common but dangerous medical condition that causes a lack of blood in the brain. The effects of a stroke can be long-term and life-changing. People of any age can experience a stroke, but it\u2019s most common in adults 40 years and older.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Oral Wellness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Center lists favorable oral health among its top five factors that prevent stroke, and a growing number of studies are finding the link between certain kinds of oral bacteria and the harm they cause to your brain. For example, these bacteria can travel into your head through your bloodstream, causing brain bleeding and dementia. This sounds scary\u2014and it certainly can be. But with good, simple oral hygiene<\/a>, you can take care of your mouth and prevent a lot of other overall health issues. There are also a number of companies that provide testing for these bacteria using saliva samples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Gum disease is incredibly common and can range anywhere from slightly tender and red gums to a mouth full of discolored, receding gums. Adults over 30 years old have a 50\/50 chance of developing gum disease. But that doesn\u2019t mean you have to accept it or live with the consequences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can prevent gum disease (and many other oral and systemic health problems) by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not all oral bacteria are bad-in fact, some are necessary for digestion and immunity-but research continues to prove some bacteria are especially harmful. Cardiovascular disease is just one condition that can be deeply affected by your oral health. Others include mental health, diabetes, pregnancy, and arthritis. There are three main links between \u201cbad\u201d oral bacteria and heart health:<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can see how each of these three circumstances has the potential to put your health at risk, especially in combination; they can lead to atherosclerosis<\/a> (hardening of the arteries). When this kind of buildup happens in your brain, blood flow slows or stops. The brain becomes starved of blood, causing a stroke. Brain cells without blood can die within minutes and prove fatal \u2013 or cause lifelong health problems to stroke survivors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The good news is that science is getting better at finding the dangerous bacteria that cause these problems. If you have signs or a diagnosis of gum disease, ask your doctor about your risk factors for heart disease and stroke.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dentists are medical professionals who can do a lot to save your health and even your life. If you have any concerns about your oral health, Dr. Todd in Cypress can answer your questions and help you start taking better care of your overall wellness. Make an appointment<\/a> at Cypress Springs Family Dentistry today!<\/p>\n\n\n\n The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.<\/em> Sources<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Stroke Connection<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Your Dentist is Your Partner<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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