Most people see their dentist as someone who only fixes dental problems, like cavities or tooth discoloration, but researchers are finding that changes in your mouth can be clues to your overall physical health, particularly your heart health. And with heart disease as the leading cause of death in the United States, dentists are stepping up to play a larger role in preventative health than ever before. 

Read on to learn about which oral health changes raise your risk factor for cardiovascular disease, how preventive dental care can help, and where to find the best dentists in Hillsborough for comprehensive family dentistry.

Understanding the Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease

Most people know that smoking, high blood pressure, and a poor diet can raise the risk of heart disease. Fewer people know that the health of their gums may belong on that same list. 

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is linked to a higher risk of serious cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke. In fact, people with untreated tooth infections are 2.7 times more likely to develop cardiovascular problems like coronary artery disease than people with healthy mouths. The most common cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene and skipping regular visits to the dentist.

How Does Poor Oral Health Affect the Heart?

Several studies have found that autopsies of people who died from heart attacks have revealed DNA from oral bacteria inside their blood vessel walls. This suggests that when you have gum disease, the bacteria that infect the gums and teeth can enter the bloodstream and settle into the walls of the arteries. 

Researchers believe that as bacteria move through the bloodstream, they raise levels of C-reactive protein, a marker that signals inflammation in blood vessels. That inflammation can thicken vessel walls, restrict blood flow, lower the immune system, and may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. 

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease You Shouldn't Ignore

Gum disease often develops slowly, and many people live with it for years without knowing. Common signs of gum disease include: 

  • Gums that look red or feel swollen and sore
  • Bleeding when you brush or floss
  • Persistent bad breath that does not go away with brushing or keeps returning shortly after you brush your teeth 

In more severe cases, some may notice: 

  • Visible pus near the gumline
  • Gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth
  • Teeth that become loose or fall out entirely
  • Bone loss of the jaw 

Gum disease is underdiagnosed because teeth can feel completely normal even when the gums are infected, which makes it easy to skip preventive dental appointments to remove plaque or regular dental cleanings that help prevent gum disease. 

Why Your Dentist Is an Important Part of Your Heart Health Team

Many dental teams now screen for health concerns like high blood pressure during routine visits. This is because many people see their dentist more regularly than they see a physician, and biometrics like high blood pressure go undetected because they often don’t cause symptoms, but can lead to serious health conditions quickly. Additionally, dentists can spot signs in your mouth that are red flags for declining physical health, like: 

  • Gingivitis, the early stages of gum disease
  • Dry mouth
  • Severe tooth decay

Finding the Best Dentist in Hillsborough for Dental Checkups and Preventive Dentistry

Left untreated, gum disease can not only erode your gums and put your teeth at risk, but it also raises your risk of cardiovascular disease over time. The good news is that preventive dental care can slow or stop this progression. At Promenade Smiles, our expert team provides a full range of preventive dental treatment options, including comprehensive dental exams, fluoride treatments, dental sealants, gum disease treatment, and deep dental cleanings. 

Whether it has been a while since your last dental visit or you’re suddenly noticing warning signs of gingivitis, working with highly trained dental professionals is the best decision you can make for your future dental and physical health. 

Ready to reduce the risk of heart problems with comprehensive dental care, including preventive and restorative dentistry, from the best dentist in Hillsborough?