Can Oral Health Issues Signal Heart Problems?

Oral health issues can be early warning signs of heart problems. Research has increasingly shown a strong link between poor oral hygiene and cardiovascular conditions such as heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke. The connection lies in inflammation, bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation in blood vessels and increasing the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries. Read on as we share a list of oral health issues that could signify heart issues.

10 Oral health issues that signal heart problems

1. Gum disease

Chronic gum inflammation, especially periodontitis, is closely linked with heart disease. The same bacteria causing gum disease can enter the bloodstream, contribute to arterial plaque buildup, and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. If your gums are swollen, red, or bleeding frequently, it may signal both oral and cardiovascular inflammation.

2. Persistent bad breath

While often caused by poor oral hygiene or food, persistent bad breath can also result from gum disease or oral infections, both of which are connected to cardiovascular health risks. The sulfur-producing bacteria involved in halitosis may also increase systemic inflammation affecting the heart.

3. Loose teeth

Losing adult teeth without physical trauma may indicate advanced gum disease, which can be a predictor of heart issues. The inflammation and bone loss causing tooth mobility often reflect underlying systemic inflammation, which may also be harming the arteries.

4. Bleeding gums

Frequent gum bleeding, especially during brushing or flossing, is an early sign of gingivitis or periodontitis. This chronic inflammation can contribute to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) by increasing inflammatory markers in the blood.

5. Mouth sores or abscesses

Recurrent sores or pus-filled abscesses in the mouth could point to uncontrolled infection. When these infections become systemic, they can trigger an immune response that raises your heart disease risk by affecting blood vessel function.

6. Dry mouth

Saliva protects the mouth from harmful bacteria. Persistent dry mouth can lead to an imbalance of bacteria, promoting tooth decay and gum disease. This bacterial imbalance and subsequent inflammation can have ripple effects on heart health, particularly in people with existing cardiovascular conditions.

7. Receding gums

Gum recession exposes the roots of teeth and often accompanies periodontitis. It's a physical sign of tissue breakdown due to inflammation, which, when systemic, is a known contributor to heart disease.

8. Jaw pain

Pain in the jaw, especially radiating to the left, can sometimes mimic dental issues but may actually signal angina (restricted blood flow to the heart) or an impending heart attack. If not linked to any dental issue, this kind of pain should be evaluated urgently.

9. Tooth infections or dental abscesses

Untreated tooth infections can lead to bacteria entering the bloodstream and causing endocarditis, an infection of the heart lining. Chronic infections may also cause inflammation throughout the body, putting additional stress on cardiovascular systems.

10. Changes in tongue appearance or colour

An unusually pale or bluish tongue can indicate poor circulation, possibly linked to heart issues. While not specific to oral disease, such symptoms, especially if paired with fatigue or chest discomfort, should not be ignored as they may reflect reduced oxygenated blood flow from a weakened heart.

Therefore, symptoms like persistent gum bleeding, bad breath, or tooth infections shouldn't be ignored, as they may reflect deeper systemic issues, including potential heart complications.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.