Your Gums Might Be Putting Your Health at Risk

I see patients all the time who come in with gum problems. Most of them don’t realize that these issues go far beyond the mouth.

Gum disease is caused by bacteria that collect under the gums, triggering an infection. But the real danger is this:

These bacteria don’t stay in your mouth — they travel throughout your body.

They enter the bloodstream and can reach vital organs like your:

• Brain
• Heart
• Liver
• Kidneys

The Link Between Gum Disease and Systemic Illness

If you search “gum disease and other health problems” on Google or any medical database, you’ll find a growing body of research showing that gum infections are linked to:

• ?? Alzheimer’s disease
• ?? Heart attacks
• ?? Strokes and cardiovascular disease
• ?? Diabetes complications
• ?? Certain cancers

Sometimes gum disease doesn’t just increase your risk — it may actually cause these conditions.

The Problem: You Might Not Even Know You Have It

What’s most concerning is that most people with gum disease don’t even know they have it. It often causes no pain. No obvious symptoms. Just silent progression — until it’s too late.

If left unchecked, gum disease can destroy the bone supporting your teeth and lead to permanent tooth loss.

But the greater cost?

You’re silently compromising your entire body’s health.

Bleeding Gums Are Never Normal

Let’s be clear:

Bleeding gums are always a red flag.

Whether it happens while brushing or flossing — even just once in a while — it’s a sign of:

• Inflammation
• Infection
• Active disease

There is no such thing as “normal” bleeding when it comes to your mouth.

You Can’t Be Healthy Without a Healthy Mouth

Your oral health is foundational to your overall health.

If your gums are inflamed, infected, or bleeding, you are putting your health at risk — plain and simple.

Take a moment to ask yourself:

• When was the last time you had your gums checked by a specialist?
• Are you noticing even slight bleeding during oral care?
• Have you had a professional gum disease screening?

Take Action Before It’s Too Late

Gum disease doesn’t get better on its own — it only gets worse.

But with proper diagnosis and treatment, you can protect not just your smile, but your heart, brain, and body.

? Schedule a periodontal checkup

? Treat gum disease at the source

? Protect your long-term health

Restore Your Smile — And Your Health

At Dr. Joseph Nemeth & Associates, we specialize in identifying and treating gum disease at every stage — from early inflammation to advanced periodontitis.

?? Located in Southfield, MI, we help patients from all over Metro Detroit regain control of their oral and total health.