When most people think about oral health, they picture cavities, cleanings, and bright smiles. But your mouth has a much bigger role in your overall health than you may realize. Your dentist in Lombard, IL, can help you understand how your gums and heart are linked.
Taking care of your teeth may do more than protect your smile. It may also protect your heart, brain, and lungs. So, boost your health and protect your wellness at Dental Care of Lombard, IL. Call Dr. Julie Glud at (630) 629-5700 to book your appointment now!
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease (sometimes called gingivitis or periodontal disease) is an infection of the soft tissues around your teeth. It often starts with gingivitis, which causes redness, swelling, and bleeding gums. Without treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis (periodontal disease), which can damage bone and lead to tooth loss.
Your dentist in Lombard, IL, warns that gum disease often develops quietly. Some patients don’t notice symptoms until the condition becomes severe. This silent progression makes regular checkups at Dental Care of Lombard extra important. Professional cleanings with Dr. Glud can catch problems early, before they damage your gums and affect your heart.
How Gum Disease Affects the Heart
So, how does gum disease influence your heart? The answer lies in bacteria and inflammation. When gums develop an infection, bacteria can enter the bloodstream. These bacteria may attach to blood vessels and increase plaque buildup.
Our dentist in Lombard, IL, explains that gum inflammation also triggers the body’s immune response. This leads to widespread inflammation, which strains the heart. Inflammation can narrow arteries, raise blood pressure, and increase the chance of heart attack.
Research suggests that people with gum disease are up to three times more likely to develop heart conditions than those with healthy gums. The link is clear: Better gum care supports a healthier heart.
Signs You May Have Gum Disease
Recognizing gum disease early is the best way to protect both your mouth and your heart. Common warning signs include:
- Persistent bad breath
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums or teeth that look longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to see your dentist in Lombard, IL. Early treatment can stop gum disease from spreading. Prompt care also lowers your risk of related health issues, including heart problems.
How a Dentist in Lombard, IL, Helps Protect Heart Health
Visits to Dental Care of Lombard are about much more than clean teeth. Your dentist in Lombard, IL, plays a vital role in protecting your heart health. During exams, Dr. Glud checks for gum disease and provides professional cleanings to remove harmful buildup.
If Dr. Glud detects gum problems, we can offer comprehensive treatment plans. These may include deep cleanings, antibiotics, or gum therapy. By treating gum disease, you reduce inflammation and lower the risk of harmful bacteria reaching your heart.
Daily Habits That Protect Your Gums and Heart
Prevention is the best medicine. The choices you make each day impact both your oral and overall health. Your dentist in Lombard, IL, recommends these habits:
- Brush every morning and night with tooth-strengthening toothpaste.
- Floss before bed to remove sneaky plaque.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Limit high-sugar foods and drinks, which fuel bacteria.
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco, as it increases gum and heart disease risks.
- Visit your dentist in Lombard, IL, regularly for checkups and cleanings.
These habits reduce the risk of gum infections and support heart health. Small changes in routine can protect your smile and your cardiovascular system for years to come.
The Role of Regular Checkups
Many patients underestimate the importance of regular dental visits. However, your dentist in Lombard, IL, knows that prevention saves both smiles and lives. During visits, Dr. Glud screens for early gum problems and other oral health concerns.
Checkups also give Dr. Glud the chance to remove tartar, which cannot be removed at home. Professional cleanings reduce the bacteria that can enter your bloodstream, and this lowers your risk of heart complications tied to gum disease. So, seeing your dentist every six months is a small step that has a big impact on your overall wellness.
When to See a Dentist Urgently
Sometimes, gum disease needs urgent attention. If you have painful swelling, bleeding gums, or loose teeth, don’t delay. Your dentist in Lombard, IL, can provide treatment to stop the infection and protect your heart.
Severe gum infections can spread quickly. They may cause tooth loss and increase the strain on your cardiovascular system. Prompt dental care with Dr. Glud can prevent serious complications and restore oral health.
Emergency visits are not just for toothaches. They’re also vital for patients who may be at risk of advanced gum disease. Seeking care right away protects both your smile and your heart.
The Bigger Picture: Whole-Body Health
Your mouth is not separate from the rest of your body. Oral health and overall health are deeply connected. Your dentist in Lombard, IL, emphasizes this point often. Healthy gums help reduce inflammation throughout the body, which benefits the heart.
Patients who care for their teeth often report better energy, improved self-esteem, and stronger immune systems. A healthy mouth supports digestion, nutrition, and social confidence. These benefits add up to better whole-body health and quality of life.
Seeing oral health as part of total wellness helps patients stay motivated. Remember: Regular dental care is an investment in long-term health.
Protect Your Smile and Heart at Dental Care of Lombard
The evidence is clear: Gum disease and heart health are interconnected. By caring for your gums, you may also reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health issues. Luckily, your dentist in Lombard, IL, is your partner in this journey.
From routine checkups to personalized care plans, Dr. Glud provides tools to protect your smile and heart at the same time. So, don’t wait until symptoms appear or get worse. Book an appointment with Dr. Glud on our website here, or contact Dental Care of Lombard at (630) 629-5700 for assistance and information.
