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The importance of oral and dental health, which we need to pay attention to in all aspects of our lives, is increasing. Oral and dental health is becoming more important in all aspects of our lives. Especially, neglected oral hygiene can lead to easy multiplication of bacteria and the emergence of various health problems. Periodontology Specialist Dr. Asst. Prof. Kadriye Merve Altıkat stated that neglected oral and dental health does not only cause tooth loss, but also has a negative effect on our heart health, pointing out that there is a direct relationship between dental and gum inflammatory diseases, called periodontal diseases, and heart diseases scientifically proven.

“Children and adults with congenital heart disease are at risk”

Emphasizing the relationship between gum inflammation and heart diseases, Dr. Altıkat said, “This relationship, which poses a risk even for people who have no problems with their general health, especially poses a serious risk for children with congenital heart disease, adults, patients with heart valve prosthesis, adults who have undergone heart surgery or have heart failure. Not only during the extraction or treatment of decayed and infected teeth, but sometimes even during bleeding that occurs only during tooth brushing, infectious agents in this area can enter the bloodstream and reach the problematic area in the heart, where they can multiply and cause a serious heart infection” she said.

“Antibiotics for infection prevention are given to those with heart disease prior to dental treatment”

Emphasizing the importance of preventive measures, Dr. Altıkat said, “In order to prevent this dangerous clinical case called infective endocarditis, those at risk and those with heart disease are given antibiotics to prevent infection before dental treatments. The most ideal treatment method related to oral and dental health is preventive measures. Oral and dental healthcare along with regular dental check-ups can reduce heart diseases by 70% (significantly) before the disease occurs” she said.

“The toothbrush used every 2 months should be renewed”

Dr. Altıkat, who stated that oral and dental health is an important factor directly affecting our general health, said, “We should not forget the effect of possible negativities in our oral and dental health on our heart, which is one of our vital organs, and the vascular system surrounding it. It is important to renew the toothbrush we use every 2 months, to clean the interdental spaces once a day with dental floss or interdental brush” she said.

“Regular dental check-ups should be done”

Dr. Altıkat emphasized the need to start regular dental check-ups from a young age, saying, “For oral and dental health, it is important not to miss regular dental check-ups starting from infancy and to have regular dental visits at least twice a year. Only in this way can we apply early diagnosis to serious dental and gum diseases. In addition to routine check-ups, it is important for individuals to cooperate with their doctor in order to have a healthy oral and dental health throughout their lives and to smile healthily in life. It is necessary to apply oral care correctly and continuously as taught” she said.

Finally, Dr. Altıkat emphasized that showing the necessary importance to oral and dental health is important in protecting our hearts, saying, “We can take steps towards a healthy smile and a healthy heart thanks to routine check-ups and correct oral care habits”