By Joseph Brier, DMD, FAGD, Dental Care of Lucas

Gum disease may begin in the mouth, but its effects can extend far beyond your teeth and gums. In recent years, researchers have learned a great deal about how oral health and systemic health are linked, and one of the strongest connections discovered is between periodontal (gum) disease and heart health. While the mouth and heart may seem unrelated, the science tells a different story.

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory condition caused by harmful bacteria that build up around the gums. When gums become infected and inflamed, this inflammation doesn’t necessarily remain isolated. Long-term prospective studies following thousands of adults over many years show that people with moderate to severe gum disease have a higher risk of developing coronary heart disease compared to individuals with healthy gums. This isn’t a coincidence, scientists have uncovered several biological pathways that help explain why.

One explanation is that the bacteria involved in gum infections can enter the bloodstream through inflamed or bleeding gum tissue. Once these bacteria circulate through the body, they can contribute to inflammation in blood vessels and may play a role in forming or worsening plaque buildup in the arteries. Plaque accumulation, known as atherosclerosis, narrows the arteries and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Advanced imaging studies add further support. Research has shown that patients with active gum inflammation are more likely to have arterial inflammation, an early warning sign for cardiovascular disease. When the walls of arteries become inflamed, they are more vulnerable to plaque deposits and sudden blockages.

Other studies have detected antibodies in the bloodstream that specifically target the bacteria responsible for gum disease. These immune system markers suggest that oral bacteria may trigger inflammatory responses elsewhere in the body, including in the cardiovascular system. Meta-analyses, which combine results from many independent studies, consistently show that people with untreated periodontal disease face a higher incidence of heart disease. This consistency across large populations and numerous studies strengthens the evidence that the connection is meaningful.

It’s important to note that gum disease does not directly cause heart disease, and treating gum disease does not replace traditional cardiac care. However, chronic oral inflammation and repeated bacterial exposure can make cardiovascular conditions more likely to develop or worsen over time.

The encouraging news is that gum disease is largely preventable. Simple daily habits, brushing twice a day, flossing, staying hydrated, and visiting your dentist regularly, go a long way toward reducing inflammation and protecting your overall health. By caring for your gums, you’re not just supporting a healthy smile, you’re taking an important step toward supporting a healthy heart.

For more information visit us at dentalcareoflucas.com.