Increased risk of heart attack, stroke
Once bacteria reaches the arteries, they can irritate them in the same way that they irritate gum tissue. This could cause arterial plaque to accumulate in the arteries; which can cause hardening and affect blood-flow.
Compromised blood-flow to your heart can cause a heart attack.
Also, arterial plaque can come loose and travel to other parts of the body. If blockage occurs in the blood vessels in the brain, it can cause a stroke.
Signs and prevention
Gum disease indications include bleeding or swollen gums, bad breath, sores in the mouth and receding gums, among other symptoms. You can prevent plaque buildup - minimizing your chance for developing gum disease - by brushing and flossing and visiting your dentist regularly.
Your dentist may use a special rinse before a dental procedure to neutralize mouth bacteria, but your best protection is to maintain a healthy mouth to avoid gum disease.
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