You already know that brushing and flossing keep your teeth healthy. But did you know that what happens in your mouth might affect your heart, too? The link between oral health and heart health is real. And it’s something every patient should understand.
People with gum disease have a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. That doesn’t mean gum disease causes heart disease, but there’s a clear connection. At DentalSpa Indianapolis, we care of your gum health as one way to protect your heart.
How Your Mouth and Heart Are Connected
The link between oral health and heart health comes down to two things: inflammation and bacteria. Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It’s caused by bacteria that build up along your gumline.
When your gums are infected, your body’s immune system responds with inflammation. That inflammation doesn’t stay in your mouth. It can travel through your bloodstream. Over time, that chronic inflammation can contribute to the buildup of plaque in your arteries. That buildup can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
There’s also the bacteria itself. The same bacteria that cause gum disease can enter your bloodstream. They can travel to other parts of your body. Some studies have found these bacteria in the fatty deposits of people with heart disease.
Taking care of your gums isn’t just about keeping your teeth. It’s about protecting your overall health.
What the Research Says
This connection isn’t just a theory. There’s real research to back it up. People with gum disease have a two to three times higher risk of heart attack and stroke. That’s a significant number.
The risk increases the more advanced the gum disease is. That doesn’t mean everyone with gum disease will have heart problems. It also doesn’t mean everyone with heart disease has gum problems. But it does mean your mouth and body are more connected than you might think.
Other studies have linked gum disease to diabetes, respiratory infections, and pregnancy complications. The inflammation that starts in your gums can affect your whole body. This is why dentists and doctors are paying more attention to the mouth-body connection.
Signs You Might Have Gum Disease
So how do you know if your gums are healthy? Here are some signs to watch for:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Loose teeth or changes in your bite
If you notice any of these, don’t ignore them. Early periodontal therapy could reverse the damage and protect your health. Gum disease is often silent in its early stages. That’s why regular dental visits matter so much.
What You Can Do
Gum disease is preventable and treatable. Here’s what you can do to protect both your smile and your heart.
- Brush and floss daily: This is the foundation. Good home care removes plaque before it hardens into tartar. Brush twice a day for two minutes each time. Floss once daily to clean between your teeth.
- See your dentist regularly: Professional cleanings remove tartar that you can’t get at home. We can also spot early signs of gum disease before they become serious. For most patients, we recommend visits every six months.
- Don’t ignore bleeding gums: If your gums bleed, let us know. We may recommend a deeper cleaning to get your gums healthy again. Early intervention is key.
- Talk to your doctor: If you have heart disease, make sure both your dentist and your doctor know your full health history. This helps us provide the safest, most effective care.
Indianapolis Dentist: Why Choose DentalSpa?
If you’re searching for an Indianapolis dentist who cares about your whole health, we’re here for you. Dr. Marckese earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Indiana University School of Dentistry in 2000. She opened DentalSpa in 2004 with a mission to change how people feel about going to the dentist.
Her approach is different. She doesn’t just treat symptoms. She looks for the root cause of your dental problems. This comprehensive approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan. When it comes to gum disease, catching it early can protect both your smile and your heart.
Dr. Marckese is also a member of the American Dental Association, the Indiana Dental Association, and the Indianapolis District Dental Society. She stays current with the latest research and techniques. That means you get the best possible care.
What to Expect at Your Gum Health Evaluation
If you’re due for a checkup, here’s what to expect. First, we’ll review your health history and any concerns you have. Then Dr. Marckese will examine your gums and check for signs of inflammation, bleeding, and recession.
We’ll measure pocket depths around each tooth. This tells us how far your gums have pulled away from your teeth. If you need a professional cleaning, we’ll do that during your visit or schedule a follow-up. For more advanced gum disease, we may recommend scaling and root planing or other treatments.
We’ll also talk about your home care routine. We’ll answer any questions you have about keeping your gums healthy. Our goal is to give you the tools you need to protect your smile and your health.
Your Health Starts in Your Mouth
We talk a lot about beautiful smiles at DentalSpa Indianapolis. We love helping patients feel confident about their teeth. But we’re also committed to your overall health. That’s why we take gum health so seriously.
If you have bleeding gums, or if it’s been a while since your last cleaning, don’t wait. Come see Dr. Amy Marckese. A healthier mouth is one step toward a healthier you. That’s something worth smiling about.
Call us at 866-486-0230 to schedule your appointment. You can also schedule an appointment online. Let’s protect your smile and your heart together. Serving Fisher, Carmel, and Indianapolis.
