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February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on habits that protect your cardiovascular health. While diet and exercise often get the most attention, your oral health also plays an important role.
Research continues to show a strong connection between gum disease and heart health. Understanding this link can help you take better care of your whole body. At Shelby Comfort Dentistry, Dr. Joh helps patients protect both their smiles and their hearts by supporting strong gum health in Shelby Township.
Call our office today at 586-646-4253 to schedule your next regular checkup, and we’ll examine your gums for any potential issues.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic infection of the gums caused by plaque and bacteria. It often starts as gingivitis, which may cause red, swollen, or bleeding gums. Because early symptoms are usually mild, many people don’t realize they have a problem.
If gum disease is left untreated, it can progress into periodontitis. This advanced stage damages the tissues and bone that support your teeth and can eventually lead to tooth loss. More importantly, the effects of gum disease are not limited to your mouth.
Inflammation: The Missing Link
The main connection between gum disease and heart disease is inflammation. When bacteria build up under the gums, your body responds by triggering inflammation to fight the infection. If that infection becomes long-term, the inflammation becomes chronic.
Chronic inflammation is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It can contribute to the buildup of plaque in arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis. Over time, this makes it harder for blood to flow and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
People with advanced gum disease often have higher levels of inflammatory markers in their bloodstream, which are also associated with heart disease risk.
How Oral Bacteria Can Enter the Bloodstream
Inflamed or bleeding gums allow bacteria from the mouth to enter the bloodstream more easily. Once these bacteria circulate through the body, they may contribute to inflammation in blood vessels or attach to existing plaque in the arteries.
Researchers have even found oral bacteria in arterial plaque samples from patients with heart disease. This does not mean gum disease directly causes heart disease, but it does show how closely the mouth and heart are connected.
Shared Risk Factors Matter
Gum disease and heart disease share several risk factors, which helps explain why they are often linked. These include:
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Poor nutrition
- Obesity
- Chronic stress
Diabetes is especially important because it increases the risk of gum disease and makes infections harder to control. At the same time, gum disease can make blood sugar levels harder to manage, increasing inflammation throughout the body.
Managing these shared risk factors and maintaining healthy gums can support better overall health.
What Research Tells Us
Major health organizations, including the American Heart Association, recognize a clear association between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease. While gum disease is not considered a direct cause of heart disease, strong evidence shows that treating gum disease reduces inflammation in the body.
Studies have found that after periodontal treatment, patients often show lower levels of inflammatory markers. This suggests that improving oral health may support better heart health as part of a whole-body approach to wellness.
How Shelby Comfort Dentistry Can Help
Dr. Joh focuses on prevention, early detection, and effective treatment of gum disease. Regular dental exams and cleanings help identify gum inflammation before it becomes severe. When gum disease is present, early treatment can help stop infection and reduce inflammation.
Professional care, combined with good daily habits, supports long-term gum health in Shelby Township and helps lower overall health risks.
Daily Habits That Support Heart & Gum Health
Protecting your gums also supports your heart. Simple habits make a big difference:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
- Avoid tobacco products
- Keep up with routine dental visits
These steps help control bacteria and reduce inflammation throughout the body.
This American Heart Month, take a closer look at how your oral health affects your overall wellness. Call Shelby Comfort Dentistry today at 586-646-4253 to schedule an exam with Dr. Joh. You can also make an appointment online if you prefer.