A Sparkling Smile Protects Your Heart

The eyes may be the window to our soul, but our smile is the door to our heart. Good oral hygiene can freshen breath, brighten your smile and protect your heart from inflammation. The bacteria in our mouth responsible for plaque and cavities can also cause an immune response that can lead to heart disease. Want a winning and healthy smile? Follow this routine.

Floss: Flossing removes the plaque between teeth that brushing can’t and reduces gingivitis and tooth decay. Aim to floss once a day. Don’t know how? Learn here. Water picks and irrigators are dental floss alternatives.

Brush: How and when you brush can have a big impact on oral health. Brush after every meal, but not right after! Immediate brushing will actually spread bacteria around your mouth. Wait 15-20 minutes after a meal before your oral care. Learn to brush right.

Fluoride: Found in mouthwashes and toothpaste, fluoride strengthens enamel and prevents cavities.

Tongue Scraping: The tongue is often neglected during brushing, but it’s home to all kinds of bacteria. Show your tongue some love with regular brushing or scraping.

Good Foods: Nuts, leafy greens and plain dairy foods have calcium and nutrients that strengthen tooth enamel. Fruits and vegetables high in fiber and water help clean the teeth. Nuts even have antibacterial properties to help fight plaque.

Bad Foods: Sugary and acidic foods can feed bacteria and damage enamel. Constant exposure can accelerate tooth decay. Do you snack on candy or sip coffee or soda throughout the day? Cut back and choose water whenever possible.

Written by: Michelle Pearson, Wellness Workdays Dietetic Intern

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