Heartwarming Smiles

WomenHeart and Colgate Total® toothpaste partnered again to launch this year's Heartwarming Smiles campaign. A recent survey found:

While the majority of Americans understand that exercise (84%) or diet (82%) can impact their heart health, far fewer people (53%) believe that proper oral care could also have an effect on their heart health.
More women than men (59% vs.48%, respectively) understand that when they take care of their teeth, they are taking care of their hearts; yet women are much less likely than men (17% vs. 21%, respectively) to put most of their energy into good oral care routines over other lifestyle modifications, like exercise and diet.
Less than two in five (35%) Americans ages 18-24 are sure of the link between their dental habits and a healthy heart, compared to 56 percent of those who are 25 and over.

DR. ELIZABETH KLODAS, CARDIOLOGIST

Dr. Elizabeth Klodas, M.D., F.A.C.C., president of Preventive Cardiology Consultants, and founder and president of Cardiovascular Imaging Consultants, in Edina, Minnesota, has teamed up with WomenHeart and Colgate-Palmolive Company to launch Heartwarming Smiles.

"Since heart disease is the leading cause of death for Americans, it is increasingly important that patients take the initiative to establish open lines of communication with their doctors and dentists. Patients need to inform their physicians and dentists of any major oral health issues or heart conditions they may have to ensure optimal care. Patients should ask about measures available that may help improve their overall health, like using Colgate Total, an antibacterial toothpaste that fights plaque and gingivitis, an early form of gum disease."

ESSENCE HARRIS, HEART DISEASE SURVIVOR

At 30, Essence led a healthy lifestyle of working out 3-4 times a week and working as a part-time fitness trainer; she did not smoke and had no family history of heart disease. Doctors confirmed her worst fear when they diagnosed her with severe coronary heart disease and she had to undergo extensive surgery to save her life. Having triumphed over so many hardships, she is now a happy and healthy mother to a 9-year old son, and is devoted to sharing her story to encourage people to step up their prevention efforts and be aware of the warning signs and risk factors of heart disease.

"Although finding time in our busy schedules may seem overwhelming, it is extremely important for women to make their heart health a number one priority, not only for themselves but for their loved ones. I had no idea that simple actions, like talking to my physician and taking proper care of my oral health, may have an impact on my heart health."

Heartwarming Smiles

Heartwarming Smiles Resources