If you have been neglecting much needed dental care and have been dealing with swollen, red, and bleeding gums, it can be much more serious than you think.
Web MD explains that for more than 20 years, scientists have been investigating a possible link between heart disease and gum disease. Although a direct cause and effect has not been proven, research has indicated that the inflammation caused by periodontal disease, which is the more serious form of gum disease, could put you at a higher risk when it comes to heart attacks, congestive heart failure, and stroke.
When it comes to the link between your oral health and heart disease research indicates that there may be two different connections
Research shows that people who suffer from moderate or advanced gum disease are more likely to suffer from heart disease than those who have good oral health habits and healthy gums.
Oral health holds some clues when it comes to your overall health and could give your dentist early warnings when it comes to diseases and conditions, including heart disease and congestive heart failure.
Although many other factors, including tobacco use, diabetes, and poor nutrition can put you in the higher risk category, people who suffer from chronic periodontal disease are more likely to have a heart attack than those who don’t. Some studies have even shown that the plaque and tartar that dislodges from along and underneath your gum line could enter your bloodstream attaching itself to your blood vessels. If this happens, it could trigger blood clots causing a heart attack. Because clots will decrease the amount of blood flow into your heart, you could have higher blood pressure increasing your risk of a sudden heart attack.
Ericson Dental in Santa Barbara explains that there are some warning signs to look for when it comes to gum disease, which affects more than 80 percent of adults in the U.S.
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed when you brush and floss
- Receding gums
- A bad taste in your mouth
- Chronic bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Teeth that are separating
If you have any of the signs above, or just haven’t seen your dentist in awhile, call or click and schedule an appointment with your dentist who can determine if periodontal treatment is necessary. Call or click and talk to the team from Ericson Dental today.