Dentist speaks out about connection between cardiovascular health and oral health

Based on a study recently presented at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association, routine scaling cleanings at least once every two years can reduce the risk of heart attack by 24%. The study, conducted by cardiology fellow Zu-Yin Chen, MD, of the Veterans General Hospital in Taipei, Taiwan, also showed the risk of stroke decreased by 13% among those who regularly had their teeth professionally scaled.

One Chicago dentist, Dr. Steven Flicker, explains how he emphasizes a holistic approach to his patients' overall well-being in his cosmetic, restorative, implant dentistry practice.

Click here to read more from SFGate.com, home of the San Francisco Chronicle.