Illume wishes to encourage clients and the wider community to make sure they visit the dentist if they experience any problems such as toothache, sensitivity or bleeding gums – as it could increase the risk of cardiovascular disease if left untreated.

This advice follows a study published in the Journal of Dental Research that shows people with untreated tooth infections are 2.7 times more likely to have cardiovascular problems, such as coronary artery disease, than patients who have sought help.

Practice owner and clinical director at Illume, Tim Rumney, says: “I know some people are reluctant to visit their dentist even when they experience pain but it is always better to be safe than sorry.

“A common sign of a root infection, more usually known as a dental abscess, is experiencing pain when biting down on the tooth, swelling and sometimes discharge from the gum. The tooth may also become discoloured. 

“Sometimes, however, infection does not immediately present with these symptoms and can go undetected for some time which is why regular visits to your dentist are important as any such underlying problems can then be diagnosed and treated earlier.

“With cardiovascular diseases being a contributor in an estimated 30 per cent of all deaths globally, these visits could even save your life.

“So if you have any toothache, sensitivity or bleeding gums, please do not hesitate to get it checked out sooner rather than later,” he added.

These new findings add to the existing links between gum disease and cardiovascular disease. It has previously been established that people with gum disease are almost twice as likely to develop heart disease so this makes the need for good oral care even more important.

Tim added: “For me, good oral health is key. By brushing our teeth last thing at night and at least one other time during the day with a fluoride toothpaste and visiting our dentist regularly, as often as they recommend, we can help prevent disease, not only in the mouth but the whole body too."

If you would like to book an appointment for a Healthy Mouth Review please call us on 01242 522230.