Clean gums = healthy heart

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Since Valentines Day is coming up I thought it would be appropriate to talk about the heart. Some of you are probably wondering what does the heart have to do with oral hygiene? Well I will tell you! Most of us know that heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States. Did you also know that periodontal disease, (gum disease) is a risk factor in having a heart attack?

Gum disease is caused when bacteria infect your gum tissue surrounding and supporting your teeth. If this is not taken care of, it can cause your gums to swell, bleed, and eventually your teeth will become loose and you may need to have them extracted. Now your gums are filled with tiny blood vessels and when they swell, they stretch out the walls of these blood vessels, making it easier for bacteria to enter into your blood stream and into your heart.

However, there is some good news. Gum disease can be treated if caught early!  Be familiar with some of these signs. If you have any of the following, you might have early stages of gum disease.

• Gums that bleed when your brush
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bad breath that doesn't go away
• Loose or separating teeth
• Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
• A change in the way your teeth fit when you bite together

So lets all take a little more care of our hearts this February by keeping our gums clean and healthy!

Top ten whitening tips

No matter what fashions and accessories come and go this year, one thing that will always remain in fashion is a beautiful white smile. Here are are some top ten whitening tips to help you achieve that smile this year.

1. First of all the obvious, making regular cleaning appointments twice a year. Once you get into a good routine you will find you wont have to worry about whiter teeth as often.

2. Eat more fibrous foods such as apples, celery, carrots and broccoli. Fibrous foods in a way help to remove stains by exfoliating your teeth as you chew them.

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3. Stay away from tobacco, dark colored drinks, (colas, tea, coffee and wine) and smoking as these will greatly stain your teeth. If you do drink some of these colored drinks, make sure to rinse your mouth after drinking so they wont set and stain your teeth.

4. Invest in an electric tooth brush. These awesome devices are very effective in removing stains on the tooth surface. I prefer the brand Sonicare but any electric toothbrush will work.

5. Floss, floss, and floss! Ideally at night so your mouth remains clean while you sleep. There is a proper technique that we will go over later but flossing helps to prevent plaque buildup which if left there can discolor your teeth.

6. Drink plenty of water.

7. Brush your teeth at least twice a day to prevent the buildup of plaque.

8. Be aware that some mouthwashes contain alcohol and other chemicals that can stain your teeth.

9. Replace your toothbrush regularly. Every six months minimum. Every three months would be even better.

10. Choose a good toothpaste that either has baking soda in it or whitening properties.