When most people think about protecting their heart, they picture exercise, nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight. What doesn’t make the list? Teeth and gums.
According to Adam Sabbath, MD, cardiologist at HonorHealth Heart Care, oral health and heart health are more connected than most of us realize. “It’s a connection worth paying attention to,” he says. “The good news is that there are simple steps you can take to decrease your risk.”
The dirty secrets hiding in your mouth
Your mouth is home to billions of bacteria, many of which help with digestion or support your immune system. But when plaque builds up along the gumline, harmful bacteria can take over and cause gum disease.
That infection can put stress on your heart if it sticks around too long. “Chronic inflammation leads to a chain reaction,” Dr. Sabbath explains. “It contributes to the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries and can raise the risk of heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular issues.”
In some cases, harmful oral bacteria can even enter the bloodstream and cause heart valve disease. People with a history of valve repair or valve infection are especially vulnerable.
Do bleeding gums cause heart disease?
Not exactly, but there’s a strong association between the two. Even when researchers adjust for differences in age, weight, blood pressure, nutrition and exercise, people with gum disease are more likely to develop cardiovascular problems.
“While we don’t say gum disease causes heart disease outright, we do know that the two are closely linked and that caring for your mouth is another way of caring for your heart,” says Dr. Sabbath.
He recommends taking five simple steps to reduce your risk:
- Brush and floss daily.
Brush twice a day for at least two minutes and floss once daily. Preventing plaque buildup helps stop harmful bacteria from taking hold.
- See your dentist regularly.
Professional cleanings help catch gum disease before inflammation spreads.
- Watch for symptoms.
Swollen, tender or bleeding gums aren’t normal. Neither is persistent bad breath. These are signs to make a dental appointment.
- Adopt heart-healthy habits.
Quit smoking, explore a Mediterranean or Blue Zones diet, stay active and keep up with regular checkups.
- Share with your care team.
Tell your dentist about your heart history and your cardiologist if you’re dealing with gum disease. This leads to safer, stronger care.
Take your dental health to heart
Caring for your teeth and gums might not sound like heart medicine, but it is. Every time you brush, floss and stay up to date with dental visits, you’re investing in your heart. “I encourage my patients to think of oral health as part of their heart-healthy routine,” Dr. Sabbath adds. “Small daily choices can add up to big protection for the body’s most important muscle.”