Our mouths are the perfect breeding ground for germs and bacteria! The moisture in our mouths creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive and multiply. Did you know that on average, a typical human mouth contains about 7 million bacteria, exceeding the number of people who live on earth? We don’t know about you, but this definitely makes us want to grab our toothbrushes!
Neglecting your oral health may result in the bacteria in your oral cavity spreading throughout the body to many areas, including one of the most vital organs, the heart. According to The Mayo Clinic, studies have shown that bacterial infections caused by poor dental health have the potential to negatively affect heart valves. This happens when bacteria travels throughout the bloodstream. When coming into contact with the heart, there becomes a heightened risk of the bacteria attaching and causing inflammation. This inflammation may result in endocarditis or similar illnesses affecting the lining of the heart.
According to the World Health Organization, heart disease continues to be one of the leading causes of death. Therefore, maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial to preventing harmful bacteria from entering into your bloodstream! Here at Sapulpa Family Dental & Braces, we’re dedicated to helping our patients stay healthy, and understand the importance of proper oral hygiene. Give us a call to schedule your appointment today!
