The Surprising Link Between Oral Health and Heart Disease

Many people view dentists and doctors as separate healthcare providers, but a growing body of evidence shows that oral health is deeply intertwined with overall health, particularly cardiovascular health. Inflammation in the gums can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to narrowed or blocked blood vessels, increased blood pressure, and a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. This connection is especially concerning given that more than 46% of U.S. adults have high blood pressure and over 40% of adults aged 30 and older have periodontal disease.

To address this, the American Heart Association’s Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts initiative, in collaboration with Delta Dental of California, is urging dental teams to adopt a total-body approach. Simple measures like blood pressure screenings during dental checkups can provide a more comprehensive view of a patient’s health. “The mouth is a gateway to the body and can often reveal more about your total body health than you may think,” said Daniel Croley, D.M.D., chief dental officer at Delta Dental of California and Affiliates. “Oral health professionals have a powerful opportunity to integrate more into their patients’ collective health care team beyond protecting their patients’ teeth. By connecting oral health and heart health, this initiative helps dentists identify risks early and guide patients toward care that can improve and even save lives.”

Experts from the American Heart Association offer four tips to protect your teeth, gums, and heart simultaneously.

First, follow a consistent brushing and flossing schedule. Brush at least twice a day and floss at least once daily to disrupt plaque-forming bacteria. Use fluoride toothpaste and brush gently to avoid enamel wear and gum recession.

Second, eat a healthy diet and limit sugar. Sugar feeds harmful oral bacteria that produce acid, causing cavities and gum disease. Prioritize vegetables, lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats while limiting added sugars and refined carbs.

Third, avoid smoking and tobacco products. Smokers face significantly higher risks of periodontal disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer. Vaping, dipping, and chewing tobacco also harm dental health by drying out the mouth and restricting blood flow to the gums. Since these products also damage heart health, quitting offers substantial benefits.

Fourth, communicate with your healthcare team. Discuss your blood pressure with your dentist and your oral health with your doctor. Share your medical history, talk about medication side effects, and ask for personalized recommendations. Treat your dentist as a key member of your integrated healthcare team.

For more information on improving oral and cardiovascular health, visit Heart.org/OralHealth.