October is National Dental Hygiene Month, a time when we recognize the critical role that oral health plays in our overall well-being. At the Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Center of Central Ohio, we believe that understanding the oral-systemic connection is essential to ensure the long-term health of our patients. That's why we collaborate with Complete Health Dentistry of Columbus under the same roof and have dental hygienists as part of our team. Dr. Eric Goulder and his team are dedicated to addressing the oral-systemic link for your optimal health, and how this collaboration can guarantee you arterial wellness for a lifetime.
The Oral-Systemic Connection
The oral-systemic connection refers to the intricate relationship between oral health and the health of the rest of the body. It's increasingly clear that what happens in your mouth can significantly impact your overall health.
The groundbreaking approach we follow in our office, that recognizes these connections, is The BaleDoneen Method, which highlights the importance of treating the underlying causes of inflammation to prevent heart attacks and strokes.
The Role of Dentistry in Arterial Wellness
While many factors contribute to inflammation, there are three root causes that can only be effectively treated by a dentist who understands and practices with an oral-systemic approach. These root causes are:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): OSA is a condition in which the airway is partially or completely blocked during sleep, leading to interrupted breathing. OSA has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems and without treatment, can take 10-15 years off your life.
Periodontal Disease: Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Research has shown that up to 50% of heart attacks and strokes are triggered by oral pathogens! Treating gum disease is essential not only for dental health but also for cardiovascular health.
Endodontic Disease: Endodontic disease is an infection of the pulp (root) of your tooth, often resulting in a periapical abscess. This infection is often caused by tooth decay, periodontal disease, or a cracked tooth. These issues can let bacteria enter the pulp of your tooth (the soft tissue of a tooth containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues). When this builds up at the root tip, it forms a pus-filled pocket called an abscess. These infections can often be asymptomatic, so it is very important we identify if this is an issue, as it can cause a heart attack or stroke.
Why Collaboration is Essential
To provide a guarantee of arterial wellness, it's crucial that medical and dental professionals work together. The collaboration between the Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Center of Central Ohio and our dental team ensures a comprehensive approach to treating the root causes of inflammation.
National Dental Hygiene Month serves as a reminder of the vital connection between oral health and heart health. At the Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Center of Central Ohio, Dr. Goulder and his team are committed to providing comprehensive personalized care. Our collaboration with dental professionals, who understand and practice with an oral-systemic approach, allows us to address and treat these root causes of inflammation that are so often overlooked!
By working together, we can guarantee arterial wellness for a lifetime. Yes, a guarantee you will not have a heart attack or stroke on our watch. That is a powerful promise!
To learn more about our comprehensive approach to preventative health and the services we offer, please contact The Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Center of Central Ohio at (614) 412-1157. Let's work together to prioritize nutrition, establish healthy habits, and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in our community. We provide a guarantee of arterial wellness; no heart attack or stroke - or your money back!
Book your appointment today by calling us at (614) 412-1157.