Oral health and the rest of your body
Gum disease is not just a dental problem
Dr. Camille Roux
Internist
In simple terms
Chronic gum inflammation is linked to heart disease and poorer diabetes control.
How gum disease develops
Bacterial plaque hardens into tartar at the gum line, the gum becomes inflamed, bleeds when brushed, and over years the bone supporting the tooth is lost. The early stage is reversible; the later stage is not.
The link with general health
Persistent gum inflammation raises circulating inflammatory markers. People with advanced gum disease have higher rates of cardiovascular disease, and in diabetes the relationship runs both ways: high blood sugar worsens the gums, and treating the gums modestly improves blood sugar control.
What protects your gums
- Brushing twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste
- Cleaning between teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes
- Not smoking, the single strongest risk factor
- Professional scaling as advised, usually once or twice a year
Signs to act on
Bleeding when brushing is not normal. Persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth or a change in how teeth meet when biting mean you should see a dentist promptly.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Inflammation
- The body's reaction to injury or irritation: redness, swelling, heat or pain.
- Risk factor
- Something that makes an illness more likely, such as smoking or family history.
- Blood sugar
- The amount of sugar circulating in your blood, your body's main fuel.
- Cardiovascular
- Related to the heart and blood vessels.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Oral health and the rest of your body?
- Chronic gum inflammation is linked to heart disease and poorer diabetes control.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Oral health and the rest of your body?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Oral health and the rest of your body?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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