The Connection Between Heart Health and Dental Disease

Posted on January 28, 2020 in Dental Health

*Updated September 2025

You might take good care of your teeth to avoid cavities, but did you know that having good oral health can also play a role in keeping your heart healthy? The human body’s systems work together in surprising ways, and oral health contributes to overall health more than most people realize.

Even though they seem unrelated, research continues to show a strong link between heart health and dental disease, particularly gum disease. Continue reading to explore this critical connection.

Understanding the connection between heart health and dental disease

An article published in the academic journal Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine says that people with periodontal disease face a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, regardless of their gender.

The study suggests that the increased cardiovascular risk associated with gum disease is largely due to systemic inflammation. Inflammation in the gums may serve as a marker for inflammation occurring elsewhere in the body, including within the cardiovascular system.

Doctors have also uncovered that harmful bacteria from infected gum tissue can enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart. In some cases, this can result in serious conditions such as endocarditis, particularly in individuals with pre-existing heart valve issues.

One of the best ways to keep gum disease in check is to see your dentist regularly. Dentists can identify signs of dental disease and treat it before it becomes more severe.

Heart health and dental disease: Beyond gum disease

Gum disease isn’t the only dental condition that may increase your risk of developing cardiac problems. A study published in the Internal Medicine Journal found that dry mouth, commonly known as xerostomia, is also often associated with cardiometabolic disease.

The study suggests that people with dry mouth are at a higher risk of heart problems because reduced saliva makes it harder to clear bacteria, which in turn can contribute to periodontitis.

As mentioned above, periodontitis is a risk factor for cardiac disease. So, dry mouth and other concerns that lead to gum disease may inadvertently put you at a higher risk of a cardiac event.

A healthy heart and a healthy smile go hand in hand

Keeping track of your heart and dental health are important for maintaining and improving your quality of life. Regular dental visits and early treatment of gum disease support oral health and may also reduce the risk of cardiac events by addressing inflammation before it affects other parts of the body. 

Don’t wait! Schedule an appointment with your dentist today to keep your smile and heart healthy!