If you notice that your gums are sore, red, swollen, or bleed when you brush your teeth, then you could have an infection or other gum disease. It’s best to not ignore these problems, even if they don’t cause you any real pain. That’s because gum diseases or bacteria in the gums have the potential to lead to heart attacks.
It may sound odd, but it’s a proven fact. The veins in your gums are like any other in your body: they lead back to the heart. However, whereas you may have bacteria growing on a cut on your arm, the outward flow of blood and the clotting tends to protect the heart from these issues.
Not so when it comes to your gums. Bacteria forming along the gums that cause infections, swelling, or pain can be carried directly to your heart. Certain bacteria can then attack the heart muscles and cause serious health risks.
What to do when you notice an issue with your gums.
Any time that you notice pain, swelling, redness, or bleeding in your gums, make an appointment with your dentist. It’s easy to be tempted to delay the appointment as long as possible because you think that it will ‘go away’ on its own, but the longer you delay, the greater the risk to your overall health.
It may be a minor inconvenience, but it can be a life-saving choice. Most of us don’t give our gums that much credit or attention. Yet when there is a problem, the pain alone can be intense. Pain or no pain, any sign of a problem is usually a sign of an infection or bacteria along the gum line and under the gum surface.
Call your dentist and make an appointment immediately in order to protect your teeth, your oral health, and your life.