A dentist has flagged a common mouth symptom that could be an early sign of heart disease.
Your mouth can be a “window” into your heart health (Image: Getty)
Brits who are health conscious may constantly be keeping an eye on the various warning signs of the country’s biggest killers, one of them being heart disease.
There are 730,000 people living with cardiovascular disease in Scotland, according to the British Heart Foundation. And now, a top dentist has now warned that bleeding gums could be a red flag for something more serious.
More than just poor oral hygiene, bleeding gums may be one of the earliest signs of heart disease. Gum disease is often seen as a local problem, something that affects your teeth and mouth.
But growing research suggests that what’s happening in your gums could reflect what’s happening in your arteries too. Experts say your dentist might spot the warning signs before your GP does.
Dr Andrej Bozic, oral surgeon at Dentum in Croatia, says that chronic gum inflammation is strongly linked to cardiovascular risk and many patients are unaware that their mouth health is so closely tied to their heart.
“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,” he said.
“It can affect the arteries, the heart and the entire circulatory system.”
What your gums are trying to tell you
Gum inflammation can trigger inflammation in the arteries, too, the dentist warns(Image: Getty)
Dr Bozic explains that gum disease starts when plaque builds up on teeth, leading to irritation and infection in the gums. Over time this triggers an inflammatory response that can spread far beyond the mouth.
“Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and contribute to the formation of fatty deposits in the arteries, known as atherosclerosis,” he explained. “This process can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular problems.”
Studies have shown that people with advanced gum disease are significantly more likely to develop heart disease, and the risk rises the longer the inflammation goes untreated.
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“Bleeding gums aren’t just a dental issue, they’re a whole-body issue,” Dr Bozic added. “Your gums might be the first place your body shows a problem, but the real risk is deeper inside.”
How to protect your smile and your heart
Dr Andrej Bozic of Dentum has warned that bleeding gums could be an early red flag for cardiovascular problems(Image: Getty)
Dr Bozic says the best way to reduce the risk is by keeping your mouth as healthy as possible. That means brushing twice a day, flossing daily and attending regular dental check-ups – even if you don’t have obvious symptoms.
“Many people ignore mild gum bleeding, thinking it’s normal – but it’s not,” he warned. “If you’re seeing blood when you brush, your body is telling you something. Don’t wait until it’s a bigger problem.”
The expert also recommends reducing sugar intake, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy diet – all of which support both oral and cardiovascular health.
“The link between oral health and heart health is real – and it’s something we can’t afford to ignore,” Dr Bozic reminded readers. “Taking care of your gums is an investment in your whole-body health.”
