The health of your gums also protects your heart.

When we think of cardiovascular risk factors we usually talk about stress, diabetes or hypertension. However, one of the silent enemies of your heart may be closer than you think: your gums.

Severe periodontitis, an advanced infection of the gums, not only causes bleeding, bad mouth odour or swollen gums, but also increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

The connection between the gums and the heart

In recent years, multiple studies have confirmed a close link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease.

In the words of Dr. Emilio Martínez-Almoyna, clinical director of Udemax Clinics, “bacteria living in inflamed gums can pass into the bloodstream and contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries, which increases the risk of heart problems”.

In our clinics in Palma de Mallorca, we frequently see patients who come to us with bleeding, reddened gums or bad mouth odour, and after a detailed study we detect an active periodontitis that may be affecting their general health.

Warning signs: when your gums talk

Gum disease is often painless, but shows clear warning signs:

• Bleeding when brushing your teeth.
• Red, swollen or receding gums.
• Persistent bad smell or taste in the mouth.
• Feeling of mobility in the teeth.
• Chewing pain or tenderness.

Dr. Martínez-Almoyna recommends a check-up if you notice any of these symptoms:

“Bleeding gums are never normal. It is a sign of inflammation that needs to be treated before it progresses and causes bone loss or systemic repercussions”.

From a swollen gum to a cardiovascular problem

Periodontal bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause systemic inflammation, a process that promotes the formation of atheromatous plaques in the arteries, the main cause of heart attacks and strokes.

In addition, diabetes and smoking increase this risk: diabetes aggravates periodontitis and vice versa, and smoking accelerates damage to tooth-supporting tissues.

Therefore, at Udemax Clinics we take a holistic approach, collaborating with internists and cardiologists when necessary, to take care of the patient’s oral and general health.

Prevention and digital technology: the future of periodontal care

At Udemax Clinics we are committed to digital dentistry, which allows us to design and manufacture customised unloading splints using digital milling machines, very useful for patients who clench their teeth or suffer from bruxism, one of the causes that aggravates gum inflammation.

In addition, our treatments include:

• Advanced professional hygiene with ultrasound and aeropulpers.
• Complete periodontal study with probing and digital radiography.
• Personalised maintenance plan to prevent relapse.
• Oral hygiene education adapted to each patient.

Dr. Emilio Martínez-Almoyna stresses that “home care is important, but it is never a substitute for a professional check-up. A professional cleaning every 6 months can prevent serious complications.

Udemax Clinics: referents in gum health in Palma de Mallorca

With more than two decades of experience, Dr. Martínez-Almoyna ‘s team has established itself as a reference in periodontics and implantology in Mallorca.

Our goal is clear: to treat the cause of the problem, not just the symptoms, protecting the patient’s oral and cardiovascular health.

Do you want to know if your gums are healthy?

Make an appointment at Udemax Clinics, in one of our clinics in Palma de Mallorca through our contact page or call us on 971 767 521. If you prefer, you can send us a Whatsapp to 607 833 629.