Lafayette, LA -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/08/2015 -- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death in America. It affects about 12.7 million adults. Stopping smoking helps reduce complications of COPD and recent research has shown that good oral hygiene also may reduce the disease's toll on people's health. Tobacco use also increases the risk for oral cancer, leads to tooth decay, and causes bad breath. Kicking the habit is key to improving both overall well-being and oral health.

"Something as easy as brushing twice a day and flossing regularly may not feel like much, but doing so rids harmful bacteria from your mouth and helps protect overall health, explains Dr. LeBlanc.

Without regular brushing, bacteria build up along the gums, teeth, and tongue. Bacteria that stick around too long can cause infection along the teeth and gums and increase inflammation in the mouth.

Poor oral health and inadequate dental care may actually worsen COPD symptoms. For example, bacteria from the mouth have been linked to respiratory infections in the airways. It's not completely clear how poor oral hygiene is connected to COPD flare-ups, but researchers suspect that oral health may indicate an individual's overall health status.

Dr. Ken LeBlanc says, "By following the tips below you can know that you are contributing to good health. Always use a toothbrush with a soft bristle. These brushes are labeled "soft" on the packaging. Using brushes labeled "medium," for example, may irritate your gum line allowing bacteria to get in. This can be a sensitive area if you have COPD."

- Change out that old toothbrush every three to four months. Worn toothbrushes don't do a good job of getting rid of bacteria and food particles.

- Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums when brushing. Make short, tooth-wide, back-and-forth strokes.

- Don't forget to brush the tongue. Bacteria live there, too.

- Use toothpaste containing fluoride. Fluoride matters because it strengthens tooth enamel.

- Floss. Toothpaste and brushing don't catch everything. Floss at least once a day between each tooth. Floss grabs bacteria between the teeth before they can form into plaque.

Dr. LeBlanc considers himself an artist in cosmetic dentistry because of his ability to create beautiful smiles for patients who thought nothing could be done for them.

To make an appointment with Dr. LeBlanc call, 337-406-9994.