What’s the Connection Between Gum Disease and Heart Health?

Most people think of gum disease as a dental issue — bleeding gums, bad breath, maybe loose teeth if it progresses. But research over the past few decades has shown that gum health may be connected to something much bigger: your heart.

At Beaufort Center for Dentistry in Beaufort, SC, Dr. Louis Costa III takes a whole-health approach to dentistry. That includes discussing how inflammation in the mouth can influence other systems in the body, including the cardiovascular system.

Here’s what we currently understand about the link between gum disease and heart health.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, begins when plaque and bacteria build up along the gumline. In its earliest stage (gingivitis), you may notice:

• Red or swollen gums
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath

At this stage, the condition is typically reversible with professional cleanings and improved home care.

If left untreated, gum disease can progress into periodontitis. This more advanced stage affects the supporting bone and tissues around the teeth and may lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth mobility.

The Role of Inflammation

The connection between gum disease and heart health largely centers on inflammation.

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition. When gum tissue is inflamed, harmful bacteria can enter the bloodstream through small openings in the gums. Once in circulation, those bacteria and inflammatory markers may contribute to changes in blood vessels.

Chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of atherosclerosis — the narrowing or hardening of arteries. While gum disease does not directly “cause” heart disease, research suggests it may increase risk factors or worsen existing cardiovascular conditions.

What Studies Suggest

Several studies have found that people with moderate to severe periodontal disease may have a higher likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease. Researchers believe that the ongoing inflammatory response triggered by gum infections may play a role in:

• Plaque buildup in arteries
• Increased blood clot formation
• Elevated systemic inflammation

Again, this does not mean that treating gum disease automatically prevents heart disease. But maintaining healthy gums may reduce one potential source of chronic inflammation in the body.

Shared Risk Factors

Gum disease and heart disease also share common risk factors, including:

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Poor diet
• Stress
• Genetic predisposition

For example, individuals with uncontrolled diabetes are at higher risk for both periodontal disease and cardiovascular problems. That overlap further supports the importance of coordinated healthcare between medical and dental providers.

Why Preventive Dental Care Matters

Because gum disease can develop quietly, regular dental visits are essential. Many patients do not feel pain in the early stages. Bleeding gums are often dismissed as minor, even though they are a sign of inflammation.

At Beaufort Center for Dentistry, preventive care includes:

• Thorough cleanings to remove tartar buildup
• Periodontal measurements to assess gum health
• Evaluation for early signs of bone loss
• Personalized recommendations for home care

If periodontal disease is detected, treatment may involve scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to remove bacteria below the gumline and allow tissues to heal.

Reducing oral inflammation is not only important for protecting your teeth — it may also contribute to better overall health.

Taking a Whole-Body Approach in Beaufort, SC

Oral health doesn’t exist in isolation. The mouth is part of the body’s larger system, and conditions that affect one area can influence another.

At Beaufort Center for Dentistry in Beaufort, SC, Dr. Louis Costa III evaluates gum health as part of a broader preventive strategy. If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, gum tenderness, or it’s been a while since your last periodontal evaluation, scheduling an exam is a practical step toward protecting both your smile and your overall health. Because healthy gums support more than just your teeth — they support your long-term well-being.

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Categorised in: Gum Health, Overall Health