An oral surgeon has cautioned that bleeding gums might indicate far more than inadequate dental care, potentially serving as an initial indicator of cardiovascular disease.
Dr Andrej Bozic, who practices at Dentum in Croatia, warns that persistent gum inflammation correlates significantly with heart disease risk, yet numerous patients remain ignorant of this vital connection between oral and cardiac health.
"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," Dr Bozic stated. "It can affect the arteries, the heart and the entire circulatory system."
The oral surgeon describes how dental plaque accumulation on teeth causes gum irritation and infection, which subsequently provokes an inflammatory reaction extending throughout the body.
Inflammation of the gums can spread to the rest of the body
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"Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and contribute to the formation of fatty deposits in the arteries, known as atherosclerosis," Dr Bozic explained.
"This process can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular problems."
Research indicates that individuals suffering from severe gum disease face considerably higher chances of developing cardiac conditions, with the danger escalating when inflammation remains unaddressed.
"Bleeding gums aren't just a dental issue, they're a whole-body issue," Dr Bozic explained.
While many view gum disease as a localised dental concern, emerging evidence indicates these oral symptoms could mirror arterial conditions, with dental professionals potentially identifying cardiovascular warning signs ahead of general practitioners.
"Your gums might be the first place your body shows a problem, but the real risk is deeper inside," Dr Bozic noted.
The surgeon stresses that chronic gum inflammation represents a systemic issue affecting the entire circulatory network, not merely the oral cavity.
Research demonstrates that prolonged untreated gum inflammation correlates with increased cardiovascular disease risk, making early intervention crucial for both dental and cardiac health.
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Maintaining good oral hygiene is critical for the heart
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Dr Bozic advocates maintaining optimal oral hygiene to minimise risks, recommending twice-daily brushing, daily flossing and routine dental examinations regardless of apparent symptoms.
"Many people ignore mild gum bleeding, thinking it's normal - but it's not," he cautioned. "If you're seeing blood when you brush, your body is telling you something. Don't wait until it's a bigger problem."
The surgeon additionally advises cutting sugar consumption, abandoning smoking and adopting nutritious eating habits, measures that benefit both dental and cardiovascular well-being.
"The link between oral health and heart health is real - and it's something we can't afford to ignore," Dr Bozic concluded. "Taking care of your gums is an investment in your whole-body health."
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