A dentist has cautioned that bleeding gums could signal something far more alarming than simply inadequate oral care and might represent one of the first indicators of cardiac disease. Gum disease is frequently viewed as a localised issue, something that impacts your teeth and mouth.
However, mounting research indicates that what’s occurring in your gums might mirror what’s taking place in your arteries as well, and specialists suggest your dentist could identify the warning signals before your GP does.
This comes from Dr Andrej Bozic, oral surgeon at Dentum in Croatia, who explained that persistent gum inflammation was powerfully connected to cardiovascular danger and numerous patients remained oblivious that their oral health was so intimately linked to their heart.
“When we see gums that are swollen, bleeding or pulling away from the teeth, we know there’s inflammation in the body – and that inflammation doesn’t stop at the mouth,” he said. “It can affect the arteries, the heart and the entire circulatory system.”
What your gums are attempting to communicate
Dr Bozic outlined that gum disease begins when plaque accumulates on teeth, resulting in irritation and infection in the gums. Eventually this provokes an inflammatory reaction that can extend well beyond the mouth.
“Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and contribute to the formation of fatty deposits in the arteries, known as atherosclerosis,” he said.
“This process can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular problems.”
Research has revealed that people suffering from severe gum disease face a dramatically heightened likelihood of developing heart conditions, with the danger escalating the longer inflammation remains untreated.
“Bleeding gums aren’t just a dental issue, they’re a whole-body issue,” Dr Bozic added. “Your gums might be the first place your body shows a problem, but the real risk is deeper inside.”
How to safeguard your smile and your heart
Dr Bozic explained the most effective approach to minimise the danger involves maintaining optimal oral hygiene. This encompasses brushing twice daily, flossing regularly and booking routine dental examinations – regardless of whether obvious warning signs are present.
“Many people ignore mild gum bleeding, thinking it’s normal – but it’s not,” he said. “If you’re seeing blood when you brush, your body is telling you something. Don’t wait until it’s a bigger problem.”
He additionally advocates cutting back on sugar consumption, abandoning smoking habits, and following a nutritious eating plan – strategies which benefit both dental and heart wellness.
“The link between oral health and heart health is real – and it’s something we can’t afford to ignore,” Dr Bozic said. “Taking care of your gums is an investment in your whole-body health.”