Teeth and heart health may be more closely related than previously thought, with a 2019 study published in the Journal of Dental Research showing that those with up to 4 missing teeth have a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and even death. However, the good news is that at Discovery Commons North Shore, residents can support their teeth and heart health with nutritious meals, healthy routines, and support that makes life feel doable again.
Located in Glendale, Wisconsin, a northern suburb of Milwaukee known for its excellent shopping, homes, and healthcare, Discovery Commons North Shore makes staying fit and well feel effortless. In our community, upscale senior apartments are paired with tailored support that enables older adults to thrive in their golden years, including maintaining good oral and overall health.
As alarming as the statistic mentioned at the beginning of the article may sound, it's important to note that experts note there may be an association between cardiovascular wellness and oral health. A 2018 study in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology discovered a moderate link between tooth loss and heart disease in men and women. However, this does not mean that all heart disease is caused by tooth and gum problems.
According to Harvard Health, there are several theories on why poor oral health is linked with heart problems. One idea is that the bacteria that cause gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis, could travel to other parts of the body, including the heart. This could lead to inflamed and damaged blood vessels.
However, others feel that it's inflammation, not bacteria, that is the problem. They point out that antibiotics do not reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems, so they point to inflammation, which can cause damage to the entire vascular system.
Others say that there may be no link at all. They conclude that other factors, such as smoking, which causes poor oral health and affects the heart, could be at play.
Harvard Health also notes that the bacteria responsible for periodontal disease are also linked with rheumatoid arthritis and pancreatic cancer.
So, what's the takeaway? While the message is not entirely clear, there are links between having your own strong, healthy teeth and heart health. So what can seniors do to maintain great oral hygiene in aging?
Improving your teeth and gum habits doesn't have to mean doing everything perfectly. It usually means doing a few basics consistently, because consistency is what supports both comfort and confidence over time. If you're finding this increasingly difficult alone, the caregivers in our assisted living and memory care communities are here to help.
Some practical, healthy aging tips for great oral health include:
This is where preventive care for seniors becomes less about willpower and more about setup. The easier it is to keep a routine, the more likely it sticks.
With reminders and practical support from our caring team, you'll find that preventive care for seniors is much easier. Although there are no medical services on site, our team can also help you access the senior dental care you need.
Heart health can mean a lot of different things, so it helps to know common warning signs that shouldn't be ignored. If any of these are new, sudden, or worsening, seek immediate help.
MedLine Plus mentions that some heart-health red flags include:
The key to good cardiovascular health is to engage with healthcare professionals who know your individual needs and to follow through on the advice they provide. The activity calendar and care support in our assisted living and memory care communities help seniors keep their hearts pumping in a safe setting.
If your hands get tired or stiff, there are several senior-friendly adapted products that can help you feel in control again. These include:
For between-teeth cleaning, many people prefer floss picks or soft interdental brushes because they're simpler to hold. The best choice is the one you'll actually use consistently, especially when you're building a routine that supports oral hygiene in aging.
The goal is to make life as easy for yourself as possible. Keep your toothbrush and other supplies visible and tie brushing to a fixed habit, such as before breakfast and before bed. If you're super low on energy, remember that something is better than nothing.
In a community setting, predictable mealtimes and daily structure can make it easier to remember routines, which is a key form of preventive care for seniors. Gentle reminders from staff also ensure you don't miss a beat.
As well as supporting oral health routines, senior living supports a balanced diet and an active lifestyle. Our chefs prepare delicious meals that include lots of heart-healthy foods, allowing you to easily make great choices. Our activity calendar has senior-focused exercise activities every day to keep your cardiovascular wellness as good as possible.
In our assisted living and memory care communities, the team at Discovery Common North Shore is committed to helping seniors understand how to live their healthiest lives. Whether that's support for teeth and heart health, or hearty meals and fun activities that bring people together, we are set up to help older adults live the best life possible.
What also sets us apart is having both assisted living and memory care on one campus, making us a true forever home for your loved one. Schedule a tour today to learn more.