Research shows a link between heart disease and gum disease.


It’s no secret that taking care of your teeth and gums plays a key role in maintaining your overall wellness. More and more research show that there is a connection between oral health and general health. Some studies suggest that there is a link between gum disease and heart disease. Read on to find out how the issues are related, and what you can do to reduce your risk of both health concerns…

What is the link?

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is an inflammatory condition that is caused by a bacterial infection or poor oral hygiene. The condition can cause the gums, teeth and supporting bones to break down over time, ultimately leading to bone and tooth loss. According to research, gum disease may increase one’s risk of heart disease because inflammation of the gums, as well as the presence of harmful bacteria in the mouth, may spread through the body and trigger inflammation and infection in the heart. A build-up of bacteria in the mouth can lead to the narrowing of blood vessels, which can have a serious effect on the heart.

Is gum disease related to other conditions?

There is research to suggest that gum disease is linked to other health conditions as well as heart disease. Studies show that bacteria in the mouth can travel to the lungs, which can, in turn, cause serious respiratory disease and infections.

Many conditions may put you at greater risk of gum disease. These include diabetes, which increases one’s overall susceptibility to inflammation and infections. Pregnancy also increases the risk of developing gum disease because of hormonal changes.  

How do you know if you have gum disease?  

Some of the most common symptoms of gum disease include swollen, tender and bleeding gums; pain when biting or chewing; receding gums; bad breath; and loose teeth or changes in the alignment of the teeth. If you suspect that you have gum disease, it is advisable to see your dentist as soon as possible. Often, the early stages of gum disease can be reversed, while more advanced stages of the condition can be managed with the right treatment.

Can gum disease be prevented?

One of the best ways to prevent gum disease is to practise proper oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth at least twice a day to remove any plaque that has built up on your teeth and gum line. You should also floss your teeth every day and use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep your mouth clean and fresh.

Besides good oral hygiene habits, you must see your dentist for regular check-ups. This way, any early signs of gum disease can be identified and resolved before the condition advances and causes serious issues. Regular professional cleans can also help to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gumline.

How can we help?

At My Dental Care @ West End, we offer the diagnosis and management of gum disease. If you suspect that you have gum disease, we encourage you to come in and see us. Your dentist will perform a thorough examination in order to identify any signs of inflammation. They will also use a special probe to check for pockets around the teeth and perform an x-ray to look for signs of bone loss.

If gum disease is diagnosed, we will formulate a plan to manage the condition. Your dentist may recommend a scaling procedure in which plaque and tartar are removed from your teeth and gums.

To find out more about how we address periodontitis at My Dental Care @ West End, please have a look here.

If you would like to arrange a consultation to see us, please don’t hesitate to get in touch here or give us a call on (07)3846 2548.