You may not realize it, but gum disease could be putting your heart health at risk. Recent research has shown a link between gum disease and heart problems. If you have gum disease, it is important to get it treated as soon as possible. This Heart Health Month, we will discuss the link between gum disease and heart problems, and what you can do to protect your health.

What is Heart Health Month?

February is Heart Health Month. It is aimed at raising awareness on heart disease, which is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States.  Heart disease can lead to a number of serious health problems, such as heart attack, stroke and failure. The good news is that many heart problems are preventable, treatable and even reversible through proper care.

Heart Health Month: Gum Disease and Your Heart

Gum disease is an infection of the gums that causes them to become swollen, red, and tender. This infection can also spread to your bones that support your teeth. If you have gum disease, it needs to be treated by a dental professional as soon as possible because not doing so could cause you problems with your heart health. While the direct link isn’t well-known, there is enough data to show a need for concern.

The Connection

Harvard Health explains that gum disease begins when the sticky, bacteria-laden film dentists refer to as plaque builds up around teeth. A completely different type of plaque — made of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in blood — can build up inside arteries. Known as atherosclerosis, this fatty plaque is the hallmark of coronary artery disease. People with gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) have two to three times the risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiovascular event.

Preventing Gum Disease

The best way to prevent gum disease is through proper oral care. Brush at least twice a day for two minutes, floss once daily, and visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings as well as examinations of your gums and mouth. If you do have gum disease, the earlier it is caught, the easier it is to treat.

Types of Gum Disease

Within gum disease, there are  a number of types you can have. Symptoms for each type are unique to the specific type of disease you have. However, they all must be treated by a professional as soon as possible to prevent serious complications with your heart health. The stages of gum disease include:

1. Gingivitis, which can cause red, swollen gums that bleed easily.
2. Periodontitis, the most serious type of gum disease, which causes the gums to pull away from the teeth and form deep pockets around them. This can lead to tooth loss if it’s not treated.
3. Advanced periodontitis, which can lead to serious damage that is irreversible. This stage needs the help of a dental professional and may require surgery or deep cleaning.

The Signs of Gum Disease

You may not know if you have gum disease. Periodontal pockets form below the gum line, and they do not cause immediate pain. However, over time a person with untreated gum disease may experience:

• Gums that bleed easily or recede from teeth.
• Bad breath
• Persistent bad taste in mouth
• Gums that are red, swollen, or tender  
• Loose teeth or changes in bite

If you experience these symptoms, visit your dentist as soon as possible.

How is Gum Disease Treated?

If you do have gum disease, your dentist can provide a treatment plan customized to your specific needs. They may prescribe antibiotics or antimicrobial mouth rinses to fight infection, and a toothpaste that is more effective than regular toothpaste at removing plaque. They may also recommend scaling and root planing, a nonsurgical procedure that cleans out pockets and smoothes the surfaces of teeth. If gum disease is caught early, it is usually treated with a laser at the dentist’s office.

Prevention is the Best Treatment

The best way to avoid gum disease is by practicing good oral hygiene. Make sure that you:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss at least once a day
• Eat a healthy diet
• Visit Premier Dentistry of Eagle regularly for professional cleanings. Also be sure to see your doctor about dental problems so they can help identify any issues and ensure good overall heart health.

Your Appointment with Premier Dentistry of Eagle

If you are concerned about heart disease, gum disease, or any other dental problems, call Premier Dentistry of Eagle today to make an appointment.