Friday, February 24, 2012

Women: Cut Your Risk of Heart Disease by 1/3!

               Dr. Wardius Reading PA dentist asks: Do you know the leading cause of death among women? The leading killer of American women is … heart attacks, stroke and other types of cardiovascular disease. Surprised that it is not cancer? An average American woman is 10-times more likely to die of heart disease or stroke than breast cancer! A study of nearly 7,000 people, aged 44-88 years enrolled in the Health and Retirement Study at University of California at Berkeley, has revealed a simple method to decrease a woman’s risk of death. Women who went to a general dentist during the previous two years reduced their risk of cardiovascular problems by at least one-third. At our Reading PA dental office, all our patients hear about the link between oral and cardiovascular health.

Wardius Center for Dental Cosmetics has long recognized the associations between dental care and cardiovascular disease. According to study lead author Dr. Timothy Brown, at UC Berkeley’s School of Public Health, “general dental care leads to fewer heart attacks, strokes, and other adverse cardiovascular outcomes in a causal way.” This study asked whether subjects had visited the dentist and whether they had experienced a heart attack, stroke, angina or congestive heart failure during the prior two years. Deaths from heart attacks or strokes were also included in the analysis. The study included other risk factors, such as alcohol and tobacco use, high blood pressure and body mass index.

For dental care to have a protective effect in women, it should occur early in the development of cardiovascular disease. In our Reading PA dental office, we stress the importance of preventive services, such as examinations and professional, gentle cleanings at every stage of life. Dr. Wardius may recommend two to four yearly cleaning visits to our Reading PA office, as well as brushing and flossing at least twice a day. Those wearing dentures should make sure they stay clean to prevent the growth of bacteria, and visit our office yearly for oral health maintenance and denture check.

So, while you are thinking about cutting down on calories, salt and fat in your diet, exercising and controlling your blood pressure to improve your heart health, don’t forget a simple tip to cut your risk of heart disease and stroke by 33% – see your dentist! And don’t forget to SMILE!

We care about your oral health.

Wardius Center for Dental Cosmetics

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