NHS GP Dr Amir Khan has explained how something we all do every day could have a huge impact on our health
The TV doctor has shared a message on the importance of dental hygiene(Image: ITV (GMB Screengrab))
An NHS GP has encouraged people to adopt a straightforward habit to improve their cardiovascular health. Dr Amir Khan, a physician known for dispensing health advice on social media, made an appearance on ITV’s Lorraine programme.
During the show, he addressed various topics, including the significance of proper dental hygiene through brushing and flossing. Notably, he emphasised that maintaining good oral hygiene isn’t just beneficial for your teeth and gums, but also for your heart.
This is because bacteria present in the mouth can enter the bloodstream, potentially triggering inflammation. The body’s reaction to this inflammation may ultimately heighten the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
Read more: Man attacked in Coventry city centre as five teenagers arrested
Read more: HGVs could be banned from part of major Coventry road in new trial
Dr Khan explained: “So the mouth is full of blood vessels and it’s also at risk of gum disease and ulcers. Now, there’s bacteria that live in our mouth, as long as they stay there, they might not cause any major issues, but if they get into the bloodstream, what they can do is cause inflammation within our blood vessels, which is a bad thing, but they can also build upon fatty plaque, so they get stuck on these fatty plaques.”
He continued: “The immune system recognises these bacteria as foreign and invasive, so it mounts a whole attack on them. That attack can loosen that fatty plaque that’s just been sitting on your artery wall. Off it goes, and then it can get stuck somewhere and that can increase your risk of heart problems and stroke.”, reports Lancs Live.
The NHS recommends brushing your teeth twice daily for approximately two minutes each time, using fluoride toothpaste to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Brushing before bed is particularly crucial, though both electric and manual toothbrushes are considered equally effective.
Regarding the connection between oral and cardiac health, the East Midlands Congenital Heart Centre explains: “The teeth and the heart share the same blood. This means the same germs (bacteria) that can lead to cavities in teeth can travel to the heart. They can cause a dangerous infection called infective endocarditis.”
Endocarditis is inflammation of the heart’s inner lining, typically caused by infection. Whilst uncommon, it can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
Infection can occur during dental procedures or through cuts and grazes, for instance.
Whilst anyone can develop endocarditis, it’s more prevalent amongst men and those aged over 50.
To prevent this condition, Dr Khan emphasised: “So it is really important to look after your teeth and floss, honestly, flossing is so important every night.”
According to the NHS, flossing doesn’t just remove trapped food particles, but also helps reduce gum disease, tooth decay and bad breath by eliminating plaque buildup. The guidance recommends flossing prior to brushing your teeth.
Interdental brushes can serve the same purpose — particularly where there are gaps between teeth — however, it is strongly advised against using wooden toothpicks to dislodge trapped food from between your teeth, as doing so risks damaging your gums and potentially leading to infection.
Make sure our latest stories always feature at the top of your Google Search by setting us as a Preferred Source. Click here to enable or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
