Heart Attack Risk May Begin in the Gums
It is becoming increasingly clear that oral and dental health is not limited to tooth decay or tooth loss, but is a critical factor that directly affects the health of the entire body. According to experts, problems often dismissed as "simple gum bleeding" can, if neglected, pave the way for serious illnesses, including heart attacks.
Oral and dental health is increasingly recognized as more than just tooth decay or tooth loss—it is a critical factor that directly affects overall body health. According to experts, problems often dismissed as "simple gum bleeding" can, when neglected, pave the way for serious conditions including heart attack.
Acıbadem Bakırköy Hospital Gum Disease Specialist (Periodontologist) Prof. Dr. Ülkü Noyan points out that gum diseases have a strong connection with heart and cardiovascular diseases, noting that this condition can also negatively affect the course of serious diseases such as Alzheimer's and cancer.
Gum bleeding as the earliest warning sign
The earliest and most important symptom of gum disease is bleeding that occurs while brushing teeth. Prof. Dr. Ülkü Noyan emphasizes the importance of proper oral care by saying, "Just as our hands do not bleed when we wash them, our gums should not bleed during brushing."
Inadequate contact with the gums due to incorrect brushing techniques can cause the disease to progress unnoticed. As the disease progresses, bleeding can occur spontaneously or during eating, and at this stage, surgical procedures and more comprehensive treatments such as implants and dentures may be needed.
Strong connection with systemic diseases
Gum diseases can lead to a chronic inflammatory process that affects not only oral health but the entire body. This condition can cause existing diseases to worsen and new diseases to develop.
According to experts, following treatment of gum diseases:
-A decrease in CRP (inflammation marker) levels can be observed
-Cholesterol and blood sugar values can be positively affected
-The risk of recurrence of heart and cardiovascular diseases can be reduced
Furthermore, studies show that maintaining oral hygiene reduces the risk of post-operative infection and shortens hospital stay duration.
Can increase the risk of heart disease
Recent research published in the International Journal of Cardiology shows that oral health during childhood can affect the risk of vessel stiffness and heart disease in later years. For this reason, experts emphasize that oral care should begin with the eruption of primary teeth.
Early intervention is vital
When gum bleeding is noticed, a dentist should be consulted without delay. In the early stage, inflammation can be easily controlled through tartar removal and root surface planing procedures.
Seven effective tips for oral and dental health
According to Prof. Dr. Ülkü Noyan, simple habits play a critical role in maintaining oral health:
-Brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially before bedtime
-Consult your dentist for proper brushing technique
-Use dental floss or interdental brush at least once a day
-Do not neglect tongue cleaning
-Do not use mouthwash without medical recommendation
-Drink sufficient water throughout the day
-Visit your dentist for a check-up at least every 6 months
Gallery
