Mouth warning sign 'could be heart disease indicator'

Many people dismiss a little blood during their dental routine as nothing to fret over. However, Dr Deepa Chopra, a seasoned dentist with more than two decades at Whites Dental, warned that bleeding gums should not be taken lightly.

"Occasional bleeding, especially if you haven't flossed in a while, might happen," Dr Chopra said. "But if your gums are bleeding regularly, that could be your body's way of telling you something's wrong."

She pointed out that consistent bleeding may indicate inflammation, typically due to plaque accumulation along the gum line: "When plaque isn't removed effectively, it can irritate the gums. Over time, this might lead to gingivitis - the earliest stage of gum disease."

Without proper treatment, gingivitis can evolve into more severe periodontal conditions, potentially leading to receding gums, bone deterioration, and even tooth loss.

"People often assume that bleeding is a sign they need to brush or floss less," Dr Chopra said. "In reality, it might mean you need to improve your technique or consistency - and see a dentist to rule out more serious problems."

Dr Chopra also highlighted that brushing too vigorously or using a hard-bristled toothbrush could be culprits for bleeding gums. She advocated for a soft-bristled brush and gentle circular strokes: "Scrubbing aggressively might feel like you're doing a deep clean, but it could actually damage your gums and enamel over time."

Hormonal fluctuations, certain medications, and even a lack of vitamins could be culprits behind bleeding gums. "For example, pregnancy and some blood pressure medications might make gums more sensitive and prone to bleeding," explained Dr Chopra.

She emphasised the importance of dental check-ups in pinpointing the exact cause.

Dr Chopra also highlighted the potential risks of bleeding gums as a gateway for bacteria to enter the bloodstream. She pointed out the close connection between oral health and overall wellbeing: "There's growing evidence that gum disease could be connected to systemic conditions like diabetes and heart disease."

Dr Chopra urged people not to ignore frequent bleeding gums: "Bleeding gums are common, but they shouldn't be considered 'normal.' It might be your mouth's way of signalling that it needs attention."

She recommended maintaining regular dental visits, brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing carefully and monitoring any changes in gum health.

"Catching gum problems early could make all the difference," she advised. "And it might prevent a lot of future discomfort and cost."