Francesca Oddo, a Registered Dental Hygienist at Babylon Dental Care, highlighted the critical link between oral health and heart disease.
"Oral health is key to protecting your heart," said Oddo. "Maintaining good oral hygiene is the first line of defense against bacteria that could impact your overall health, including your heart. Regular dental visits allow us to identify and address potential health risks before they become more serious. Oral health is more than just a beautiful smile—it's a crucial component of your overall well-being."
Oral health is closely tied to overall systemic health, with growing evidence highlighting its impact on the heart. According to Renal and Urology News, the use of positive airway pressure devices in patients with sleep apnea has been associated with lower cardiovascular event risks. This connection reinforces the importance of addressing health holistically, as oral and systemic care often overlap to prevent broader health issues.
For heart patients, proper oral care extends beyond daily habits. "Patients with high or uncontrolled blood pressure should consult their physicians before undergoing invasive dental procedures, like tooth extractions," Oddo said. She added that stress and pain from such treatments could elevate blood pressure, posing significant risks. Additionally, patients with specific conditions, such as prosthetic heart valves or congenital heart disease, may need preventive antibiotics before dental procedures.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), consistent oral hygiene routines, including brushing, flossing, and regular checkups, can help reduce risks associated with cardiovascular disease.
"For patients with prosthetic cardiac valves or congenital heart disease, preventive antibiotics prescribed by their physician before dental procedures are crucial," Oddo said. These measures reduce the risk of infection and protect cardiovascular health.
According to the Babylon Dental Care website, Francesca Oddo became a member of the BDC team in 2018 as a Registered Dental Hygienist. In 2023, she was promoted to Hygiene Team Lead. Oddo values the seamless collaboration with her teammates at BDC, emphasizing the genuine teamwork that defines their dynamic. "We’re a true team; it’s as simple as that," she said. "I’ve heard many patients say that Babylon Dental Care is like a well-oiled machine."
