A surprising link between gum disease and heart health
A new report from the American Heart Association says that gum disease may be even more closely linked to heart disease than we thought. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a common problem that makes the gums red, swollen, or bleed easily. It usually happens when plaque builds up and people don’t take care of their teeth.
The report says that inflammation in the gums could hurt the heart and blood vessels. Bacteria can get into the bloodstream when the gums are swollen. This could hurt the arteries, which raises the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other heart problems. The connection between oral health and heart health is stronger than doctors used to think.
Taking care of your teeth and gums is important for more than just having a nice smile, experts say. It’s also good for your heart. Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing every day, and going to the dentist regularly are all easy things you can do to lower your risk of gum disease. Some studies even say that treating gum disease may make blood vessels healthier and lower the risk of heart disease over time.
People who already have heart problems should be extra careful. It’s important to see a dentist right away if you notice symptoms like bleeding gums, bad breath, or loose teeth. Taking care of your teeth and gums can be a small but helpful way to support your heart health.
The American Heart Association says that gum disease doesn’t cause heart disease on its own, but it does make other risk factors worse, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and diabetes. Taking care of your gums is a simple way to help your heart.
In short, gums that are healthy mean a heart that is healthy. Don’t forget about your oral health; it could be more important than you think.
