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Why Gum Health Matters for Your Heart

Key Takeaways

• Research shows a strong link between gum disease and cardiovascular health.
• Inflammation in the gums can contribute to conditions like heart disease and stroke.
• Simple preventive steps—brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups—support both oral and heart health.
• Thames Street Dental in Kingston upon Thames offers expert gum care to protect your smile and overall wellbeing.

The Mouth–Heart Connection

Most people think of gum disease as a problem confined to the mouth—bleeding gums, bad breath, or tooth loss. But growing scientific evidence highlights that poor gum health can also affect your heart.

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis or gingivitis, begins when plaque bacteria irritate the gums. Left untreated, inflammation spreads below the gumline, damaging the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. The same inflammation that weakens your gums can enter the bloodstream, potentially harming your cardiovascular system.

A study published by the British Heart Foundation notes that individuals with advanced gum disease are at a higher risk of developing heart disease and stroke. The reason? Bacteria and inflammatory markers travel from the mouth to the arteries, encouraging blood clots and narrowing of blood vessels.

How Gum Disease Affects the Heart

1. Inflammation and Artery Damage
   Chronic gum infection keeps the body in a constant state of inflammation. This inflammation can damage arteries, making them more prone to blockages.
2. Bacterial Spread
   Harmful oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream during routine activities like chewing or brushing. These bacteria have been found in arterial plaque, suggesting a direct connection between gum disease and clogged arteries.
3. Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Events
   People with gum disease are more likely to suffer from heart attacks, angina, or strokes compared to those with healthy gums.

Signs Your Gums Need Attention

If you notice any of the following, it’s time to book a gum health check:

• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Swollen, tender, or red gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Receding gums or loose teeth

These are classic signs of gingivitis or periodontitis, and early treatment can prevent both oral and systemic complications.

Protecting Both Your Smile and Heart

Good oral hygiene is one of the simplest ways to lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. At Thames Street Dental, our team emphasises preventive dentistry to keep your gums and heart in good shape.

Here are some key tips:

• Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss or use interdental brushes to clean between teeth.
• Visit your dental hygienist for a scale and polish to remove stubborn plaque and tartar.
• Maintain a balanced diet low in sugar and high in nutrients that support gum tissue.
• Don’t smoke—tobacco use significantly increases the risk of gum disease and heart disease.

If you’d like to learn more about how we protect gum health, visit our dental hygiene and scale & polish service in Kingston.

Gum Health Care at Thames Street Dental

At Thames Street Dental, we provide:

• Comprehensive gum assessments during check-ups.
• Professional cleaning and periodontal therapy to stop gum disease progression.
• Tailored oral health advice to help you manage your daily care at home.

Our goal is simple: protect your smile, prevent disease, and safeguard your overall wellbeing.

If you live in Kingston upon Thames or nearby areas such as Surbiton, Hampton Wick, or Teddington, our friendly dental team is here to help.

FAQs

1. Can treating gum disease improve heart health?
Yes, studies suggest that treating gum disease reduces inflammation markers in the blood, which benefits cardiovascular health.

2. How often should I see a dentist for gum health?
We recommend at least two dental check-ups a year, but if you have gum disease, more frequent visits may be necessary.

3. Are bleeding gums always a sign of gum disease?
Not always, but bleeding is often the first sign of gingivitis. Book a check-up with your Kingston dentist if you experience bleeding gums regularly.

4. Can lifestyle changes help both gums and heart?
Absolutely—quitting smoking, reducing sugar intake, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and exercising regularly benefit both oral and heart health.

5. What should I do if I have gum pain or bleeding?
Schedule a visit with Thames Street Dental as soon as possible. Early treatment prevents progression to more serious gum and heart complications.

Ready to Protect Your Gums and Your Heart?

Book your appointment with Thames Street Dental today. Your gums don’t just protect your teeth—they help protect your heart too.