Bleeding gums may seem like a minor annoyance, but they could signal something far more serious. According to renowned dentist Dr Mark Burhenne, inflammation in your gums might increase your risk of a heart attack—even as early as your 30s. In a post shared on June 25, Dr Burhenne outlined the connection between oral health and cardiovascular risk, and offered four practical ways to protect your health.
Bleeding Gums: A Red Flag for Heart Trouble?
In his post titled “This is how bleeding gums can lead to a heart attack at 35”, Dr Burhenne explained that bleeding gums often indicate inflammation caused by gum disease, which in turn can trigger systemic issues.
“Your gums are a window into your body. Inflammation here means something bigger might be going on,” he said.
When the gums are inflamed, bacteria can enter the bloodstream, and this triggers a chain of events:
- Plaque buildup in arteries
- Damage to blood vessels
- Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), a key marker of inflammation and heart disease
Backed by Data
Dr Burhenne pointed to research to support this connection:
- A 2019 BMJ Open study found that gum disease doubled the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
- A major review in the Journal of the American Heart Association showed a 28% higher risk of heart attack among those with gum disease.
4 Ways to Lower the Risk
The good news? Gum disease and its consequences are preventable and treatable. Dr Burhenne offered these four essential tips:
- Floss daily “Bleeding means you need to floss—not that you should stop,” he said.
- Avoid harsh mouthwash
Strong antibacterial rinses can damage your oral microbiome, making things worse. - Check your gum pocket depth
Ask your dentist about this during your visit. “More than 3mm? That’s worth addressing,” he advised. - Take symptoms seriously
Puffy gums, bleeding, and bad breath aren’t just cosmetic concerns. They may point to chronic inflammation and deeper health risks.
Why Functional Dentistry Matters
Dr Burhenne emphasized the importance of functional dentistry, a form of care that looks beyond the teeth and connects oral symptoms to overall health.
“You need a dentist who’s a great clinician, yes—but also someone who’s a systems thinker,” he explained. “Someone who’ll ask why your gums are bleeding and connect the dots between oral and whole-body health.”
Final Takeaway
Your gums may be telling you more than you think. What starts as a small issue in the mouth could be a signal of larger systemic risks—especially for your heart. The right oral care isn’t just about preventing cavities; it’s about protecting your entire body.