How Oral Health Affects Your Heart: 4 Ways to Care for Teeth, Gums and Cardiovascular Health

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Many people treat dentists and physicians as separate parts of healthcare: one focuses on the mouth, while the other addresses the rest of the body. In truth, the body’s systems are closely linked, and oral health is no exception. That makes dentists an important part of an overall care team.

The relationship between oral health and heart health is especially strong, with inflammation playing a central role. When gums become inflamed, bacteria can travel from the mouth into the bloodstream, where they may contribute to narrowed or blocked blood vessels. As a result, the heart may have to work harder and blood pressure can rise, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. More than 46% of adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure, and more than 40% of adults age 30 and older have periodontal disease.

To help address these concerns, the American Heart Association’s Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts initiative, in partnership with Delta Dental of California, is encouraging dental teams to take a whole-body approach with patients. Simple measures such as blood pressure checks during dental visits can provide a fuller picture of overall health. If someone on your dental team reaches for a blood pressure cuff at your next appointment, that is a positive sign.

“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 at the American Heart Association offer these tips to support your teeth, gums and heart at the same time.

Stick to a Brushing and Flossing Routine

Strong oral care starts with a daily habit. Brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day to help disrupt plaque-forming bacteria. Dentists recommend fluoride toothpaste and advise brushing the teeth and gums thoroughly but gently, since too much force can wear down enamel and lead to gum recession.

Choose a Healthy Diet and Cut Back on Sugar

Children are often told that sugar can damage teeth, and that warning is well founded. Sugar feeds harmful bacteria in the mouth, which produce acid that can lead to cavities and gum disease. For a diet that supports both heart and dental health, focus on vegetables, lean proteins, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats, while limiting added sugars and refined carbohydrates.

Stay Away from Smoking and Tobacco Products

The link between smoking and oral disease is well established: smokers face much higher risks of periodontal disease, tooth loss and oral cancer. Cigarettes are not the only concern. Vaping, dipping and chewing tobacco can also harm oral health by drying the mouth and reducing blood flow to the gums. Because these products are also bad for heart health, quitting or avoiding them can bring important benefits. Seek support if you need help giving them up.

Talk with Your Healthcare Team

Because the body’s systems are connected, it helps to discuss blood pressure with your dentist and oral health with your doctor. Think of your dentist as an essential part of your integrated healthcare team. Share your medical history, mention any medication side effects and ask for personalized advice on protecting your teeth, gums and overall health.

To learn more about improving oral and cardiovascular health, visit Heart.org/OralHealth.