Caring for your mouth does more than protect your teeth — it can help protect your heart. The term dental and heart health describes how oral disease, especially gum disease, is linked to higher risks for heart problems. This post summarizes the science, common signs to watch for, everyday prevention steps, and when to seek specialist care.

The Link Between Dental And Heart Health: What The Research Shows

Researchers have found consistent associations between gum disease and higher rates of heart disease, stroke, and elevated inflammation markers. Large studies show people with periodontal disease are more likely to have heart events, but research often shows correlation rather than direct proof that one causes the other. Still, the repeated links across many studies make oral health an important factor to consider in overall heart risk.

How Gum Disease Can Affect The Heart

There are a few ways gum disease may affect heart health:

• Chronic oral inflammation raises overall inflammation in the body, which can stress blood vessels.
• Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream through bleeding gums and travel to the heart or arteries.
• The immune response to these bacteria can worsen plaque buildup in arteries.
• Many shared risk factors — smoking, diabetes, poor diet, and age — increase both gum disease and heart disease risk.

Common Oral Signs That Could Signal Heart Risk

Watch for these oral signs that may warrant medical attention or closer monitoring of heart risk:

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Gum recession or exposed tooth roots
• Swollen, red, or tender gums
• Chronic oral infections that don’t heal

If you have these symptoms, especially with high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease, talk to your dentist and primary care doctor soon.

Everyday Steps To Protect Both Your Gums And Your Heart

Simple daily habits reduce oral infection and help overall health:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft brush.
• Floss or use interdental cleaners daily to remove plaque between teeth.
• See your dentist regularly for exams and professional cleanings.
• Quit smoking and avoid tobacco products.
• Keep blood sugar and blood pressure under control with your doctor’s help.
• Eat a balanced diet, limit added sugars, and stay active.

Coordinate care with your primary care provider to manage cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes — all of which influence both dental and heart health.

Dental Treatments That Lower Systemic Risk

Treating gum disease reduces infection and inflammation, which may lower systemic risk over time. Common periodontal treatments include:

• Scaling and root planing to remove deep plaque and tartar below the gum line
• Regular periodontal maintenance to keep infection controlled
• Targeted antimicrobial therapies guided by diagnostic tests

Advanced tools like oral DNA testing can identify specific bacteria driving disease so treatment is more focused. Treating infections promptly improves oral health and supports overall inflammatory control.

When To See A Periodontist Vs. Your Dentist Or Doctor

Your general dentist or doctor can manage early signs of trouble. Seek a periodontist when you have signs of advanced disease or when standard care hasn’t worked. Common referral reasons include:

• Deep pocket depths around teeth or bone loss visible on X-rays
• Loose teeth or continuing bleeding despite home care
• Failed conventional therapy or persistent infection
• Systemic conditions (like uncontrolled diabetes) that complicate gum disease

Periodontists work with dentists and physicians to coordinate care that addresses both oral infection and systemic health risks.

Advanced Periodontal Care By Dr. Keith Chertok, DDS

Dr. Keith Chertok, DDS, is a board-certified periodontist in Berkeley, CA who uses evidence-based, minimally invasive technology to treat gum disease. His practice uses LANAP laser therapy, the Pinhole Surgical Technique, oral DNA testing, and 3D imaging to reduce infection, preserve tissue, and support long-term health. These approaches aim to lower oral inflammation while improving comfort and recovery.

Takeaway And Next Steps

Keeping gums healthy supports heart health. If you notice bleeding gums, loose teeth, or persistent bad breath, schedule a periodontal exam and talk with your doctor about your heart risk. Early treatment of gum disease and managing shared risk factors like smoking and diabetes are practical steps to protect both your mouth and your heart.