Your mouth connects to the rest of your body in more ways than you might think. One of the most important and surprising links exists between gum disease and heart health. Understanding this connection can help you protect not just your smile, but your overall well-being.
At Kathryn Jodry, DDS, patient education starts with prevention. When you know how gum disease affects your body, you can take steps that support long-term health.
Gum or periodontal disease begins when plaque builds up along the gumline. Plaque contains bacteria that irritate the gums and cause inflammation.
Early-stage gum disease, known as gingivitis, often leads to red, swollen gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. Without treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, in which the gums pull away from your teeth. This creates pockets where bacteria can thrive.
Over time, this process can damage bone, loosen teeth, and lead to tooth loss. It’s a common problem, with around 796 million people affected by severe periodontitis worldwide.
Your gums contain many blood vessels. When they stay inflamed or infected, bacteria can enter the bloodstream. Once there, these bacteria and inflammatory chemicals can travel throughout the body and affect other systems.
Chronic inflammation plays a notable role in many health problems, including heart disease. Gum disease keeps the immune system in a constant state of alert, which may strain the body over time.
Studies show that people with gum disease face a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and blocked arteries. While gum disease doesn’t directly cause heart disease, the two conditions share common pathways.
Inflammation acts as the main link. The same inflammatory response that damages gum tissue may also contribute to plaque buildup in arteries. This buildup can narrow blood vessels and limit blood flow to the heart.
Certain oral bacteria have also been detected in arterial plaque, suggesting a possible link between oral infections and cardiovascular disease.
Gum disease and heart disease often share the same risk factors, including:
Because these conditions overlap, improving one area of health often helps the other.
Gum disease often develops quietly, which makes regular dental visits essential. Common signs include:
Heart disease symptoms differ, but chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat always require medical attention.
Taking care of your gums reduces inflammation and lowers the bacterial burden in your mouth. That reduction helps ease the strain on your cardiovascular system.
Simple daily habits make a big difference:
Professional dental cleanings also play a critical role. Cleanings remove hardened plaque, called tartar, that brushing alone cannot eliminate.
Routine dental exams allow your dentist to catch gum disease early, before it causes serious damage. Early treatment improves oral health and may reduce systemic inflammation.
During visits, Dr. Jodry checks gum depth, looks for signs of infection, and offers personalized advice to improve your oral care routine. These steps help preserve both your smile and your overall health.
Dental care works best when it fits into a whole-body approach. If you live with conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, keeping your gums healthy becomes even more important. Let both your dentist and physician know about any ongoing health concerns so they can work together.
Healthy gums support a healthy body. Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping up with dental visits reduce inflammation and support your heart. Taking action today is good for your mouth, your heart, and your future.
To learn more about protecting your heart with better oral care, call Kathryn Jodry, DDS, or use the online inquiry form to contact the office.
