According to experts, periodontitis is closely linked to vascular and heart diseases. The first signs of a heart attack can therefore appear in the mouth.
Cardiovascular diseases are the second most common cause of death worldwide – and even the most common in industrialized nations. Typical risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, lack of exercise or increased blood lipids are usually considered responsible for the development of vascular changes and their consequences. However, chronic inflammation, such as periodontitis, is also one of the factors that can increase the risk of a heart attack. Therefore, such changes in the mouth can be an initial warning signal.
Heart attack: first signs visible in the mouth – seven warning signs you should know
According to information from the German Society for Periodontology (DG PARO), vascular and heart diseases are closely linked to periodontitis. If periodontitis is left untreated, more bacteria can enter the bloodstream. This happens even when brushing your teeth or chewing. In the worst case, people with this predisposition run the risk of inflammation of the inner lining of the heart. Both diseases have common risk factors. This also includes, for example, genetic variants. Such a predisposition does not necessarily result in a disease. However, since it significantly increases the risk, a severe inflammatory reaction caused by bacteria in plaque can always be a warning signal.
The tricky thing about it, however, is that those affected won’t notice much of it at first. Problems and complaints usually only appear when the illness has already progressed. However, there are some mouth warning signs that you should be aware of. According to DG PARO, there are the following seven warning signs that you should definitely not ignore when they occur:
- Sensitive teeth (especially necks)
- Swollen and red gums
- Gums recede
- Frequent bleeding gums (e.g. when chewing or brushing teeth)
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth and/or persistent bad breath
- Teeth become loose and can wander
- Pus emerges from gum pockets
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Prevent heart attack: Experts recommend thorough oral hygiene
Since inflammatory substances or bacteria enter the bloodstream from the oral cavity, inflammatory diseases in the oral cavity can affect the entire organism. Healthy gums and healthy teeth play an important role in the well-being of the entire body. According to experts, in order to reduce the risks of periodontitis and tooth loss, in addition to a healthy lifestyle thorough oral hygiene and regular self-checks as well as check-up and treatment visits to the dentist are essential.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Unfortunately, our editorial team cannot answer individual questions about medical conditions.