Gum Disease & Heart Disease: How Your Smile Talks to Your Heart ❤️ (Yes… Really!)
Your Mouth Isn’t Las Vegas — What Happens There Doesn’t Stay There
We all know brushing and flossing keep your smile sparkling, but did you know your gums might also be sending messages to your heart? And not the sweet, romantic kind. Researchers have uncovered a surprising connection between gum disease (periodontal disease) and heart disease, and the science is way more interesting than you’d expect.
Think of your gums like the bodyguards of your mouth. When they’re strong, everything runs smoothly. But when they get irritated, inflamed, or infected… trouble starts spreading like gossip at brunch.
So… How Does Gum Disease Affect Your Heart? 🫀
1. Inflammation Travels
Gum disease is essentially a chronic inflammatory condition.
Inflammation in the gums can release harmful bacteria and toxins into the bloodstream, triggering inflammation elsewhere — including the arteries around your heart.
2. Bacteria Go on a Road Trip
Certain bacteria found in periodontal disease have been discovered in arterial plaque.
That’s right — mouth bacteria can take a cross-country trip through your bloodstream and help contribute to plaque buildup around your heart.
3. Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Problems
Multiple studies have shown that people with untreated gum disease are more likely to experience:
Heart disease
Clogged arteries
Stroke
Heart attacks
We’re not saying flossing solves everything, but it might help solve more than you think.
Who’s Most at Risk?
If you’re dealing with:
Bleeding gums
Puffy or swollen gums
Chronic bad breath
Gum recession
Sensitivity
…your gums might be trying to tell you something important.
And if you have existing heart issues, keeping your gums healthy becomes even more crucial.
How to Keep Both Your Smile & Heart Happy ❤️🦷
✔ Brush twice a day
Electric brushes do an amazing job removing plaque.
✔ Floss (or Water Floss) daily
Your gums will thank you — and so will your cardiologist.
✔ Get regular dental cleanings
Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar you can’t reach at home.
✔ Don’t ignore bleeding gums
Healthy gums don’t bleed. If they do, it’s your body's red flag.
✔ Stay consistent with examinations
This is where early signs of gum disease are caught before they become major problems.
The Bottom Line: A Healthy Smile Supports a Healthy Heart
Your mouth is a gateway to your overall health. Maintaining great oral hygiene isn’t just about preventing cavities — it’s a major step in protecting your cardiovascular health too.
At Luxe Dental™, we’re all about keeping your smile stunning and helping you live a longer, healthier life. Your dentist might even be your heart’s new best friend. 💙