February is coming to a close, which means the end of American Heart Month. Your Rochester dentist, Dr. Gilly Calcagno, would like to take one more opportunity to discuss the importance of heart disease prevention, particularly in women. In the United States, nearly one out of every three deaths is a direct result of heart disease and stroke. Many people don’t realize that a few simple steps can help prevent heart disease. In today’s blog, Dr. Calcagno discusses how women can help protect their dental and heart health.
Heart Disease and Women
While the presence of heart disease is rampant in both men and women, it affects them each very differently. Did you know more women die of heart disease annually then men? In fact, each year more women die from heart disease than from breast or lung cancer combined. If a woman has ever had gestational diabetes or preeclampsia, their risk of heart disease increases. Smoking also elevates your risk of developing cardiovascular issues.
Exercise
Experts recommend people complete at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each day. When we work out, we lower our blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels. In addition, regular exercise outdoors can also protect your smile. Exposure to the sun’s natural UV rays provides our bodies with vital doses of vitamin D. With vitamin D, your body can absorb calcium, which strengthens bones and tooth enamel. Strong enamel helps safeguard your teeth against tooth decay. Simply put, a little time working out in the sun means healthy teeth and healthy hearts.
A Good Diet
Obesity is a leading cause of heart disease in both men and women. Our diets are filled with fast food containing little nutritional value. Foods containing high levels of trans fats, sugars, sodium, and cholesterol endanger our smiles and our hearts. The bacteria in the mouth break down sugars and other starches. This process increases the presence of oral acids. Over time, oral acids weaken tooth enamel, allowing bacteria to permeate the surface of the teeth and cause tooth decay. To prevent heart disease and keep your smile health and bright, you should add more fresh fruit and vegetables to your diet.
Schedule a Visit with Your Rochester Family Dentist
Do you have questions or concerns regarding the links between your dental and heart health? Make an appointment with your Rochester family dentist by calling 507-281-3659. Our 55902 dentist office offers the latest in general, restorative, and family dentistry. We serve patients from Rochester, Red Wing, St. Charles, Winona, Farmington, and surrounding areas.
