Oral health tips: Why taking care of your teeth means taking care of your heart

It is a common belief that the heart belongs to cardiologists, the mouth to dentists. But research is proving that these two fields are more connected than than you know, says Dr Suman Yadav, Director of Maxillofacial & Dental Department at Numed Hospital Noida. “People often think of oral health as something limited to the mouth. But the reality is, your mouth is the gateway to your body. What happens there can have ripple effects throughout your entire system, including your heart,” she adds.

Oral health tips:You may not think twice about a little bleeding while brushing or flossing. But persistent gum inflammation, known as periodontal disease, is far more serious than it seems. “When gums become infected, they allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation throughout the body. And inflammation, as we now know, is a major contributor to cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes. Periodontal disease isn’t just about losing teeth. It creates a chronic inflammatory state that can damage blood vessels, increase clotting risk, and even contribute to high blood pressure,” explains Dr Yadav.

Bacterial invasion: Harmful oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream, damaging arteries and increasing the risk of blockages.

Inflammatory overload: The immune response triggered by gum disease releases inflammatory molecules that can worsen artery plaque buildup.

Blood clot formation: Some oral bacteria can contribute to excessive clotting, which raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Oral health tips:A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that people with severe gum disease had a 49 percent higher risk of cardiovascular problems compared to those with healthy gums. The connection is undeniable, yet many people remain unaware of the risks hidden in their daily oral care habits.

Oral health tips:If you think brushing alone is enough to keep your gums healthy, think again. Lifestyle factors such as diet, stress, and smoking play a crucial role in both oral and cardiovascular health. “Sugar-laden foods don’t just cause cavities, they fuel harmful bacteria that contribute to gum infections. Smoking weakens gum tissue while also hardening arteries, doubling the risk of heart disease. Even chronic stress, which raises cortisol levels, has been linked to both gum inflammation and high blood pressure,” Dr Yadav says. Your mouth and body don’t function separately. “The choices you make every day, what you eat, whether you smoke, how well you manage stress, affect both your oral and heart health simultaneously,” she adds.

Today more and more, medical professionals are advocating for a collaborative approach, where cardiologists and dentists work together to detect and prevent health risks early on. “Dentists are often the first to notice symptoms of underlying health conditions. Chronic gum disease can be an early warning sign of cardiovascular issues. It’s time we start looking at the bigger picture,” opines Dr Yadav.

Small habits, big impact:

Oral health tips:Protecting your oral health, and, by extension, your heart, doesn’t require drastic changes. “Simple, everyday habits can make a profound difference. Brushing and flossing diligently, eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and scheduling regular dental visits can go a long way in reducing inflammation and lowering cardiovascular risks,” suggests Dr Yadav.