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Q: Why is flossing so important?
A: Regular flossing is important because it helps remove the unhealthy
build-up of plaque on your teeth. And studies have found that keeping
your mouth free of plaque may also be good for your heart. A protein associated
with inflammation, called C-reactive protein, is consistently elevated
in people who are at risk for heart disease. Recent studies show that
in some cases the source of that protein may be periodontal disease, which
is the result of a bacterial infection that attacks the gum tissue that
supports the teeth. Signs and symptoms of the disease range from bad breath
to painful abscesses to loss of teeth.
These findings show that good dental
hygiene may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and atherosclerosis,
which is hardening of the arteries. Studies involving the carotid arteries
of humans with periodontal disease have shown that one year after receiving
periodontal treatment, the subjects showed a reduced thickening of blood
vessels. Talk with your dentist about the importance of flossing.
June 15, 2009
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