It may seem crazy, but the health of your teeth and gums can have a direct impact on your heart health. With nearly half of all adults showing mild cases of periodontitis, it's important to learn how it's connected and what you can do to keep your smile and heart as healthy as possible.

The Heart Health Connection

Unlike the Rainbow Connection, the connection between oral and heart health shows just how easy it is for body systems to impact each other. Let's start with untreated periodontitis—remember almost half of us have it. It begins with gum disease, but if left untreated, it can easily spread to the bones and ligaments supporting your teeth. That growing infection creates inflammation in the body, which eventually damages blood vessels. Damaged blood vessels begin to increase plaque buildup that can block blood flow to your heart.

Breaking the Connection

If you want to keep both your mouth and your heart in great shape, start with your Transocean dental plan. You can see any dentist you like, but in-network dentists offer a discounted rate. And, all preventive care is covered at 100%— that means no deductible, and the cost doesn't go toward your annual benefit maximum.

So, there's really no excuse to avoid getting your preventive dental care. Plus, saving your heart in the process will give you a lot more to smile about.

Getting Started

Access a list of UHC dental network providers by calling +1 877 816 3596 or online at www.myuhcdental.com.