The Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease

Gum disease and cardiovascular disease are both major public health issues that impact a large number of people every day. While these two diseases are in separate areas of the body, research indicates that periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease are connected; having one disease may actually increase your risk of developing the other. This connection has recently been featured in prominent news outlets like TIME Magazine, USA Today, Men’s Health, and ABCNews.

Both gum disease and cardiovascular disease involve chronic inflammation. Inflammation is the body’s instinctive reaction to fight off infection. Inflammation is initially good for your body because it helps in the healing process. However, chronic (prolonged) inflammation can lead to severe health complications. We, as periodontists, work with you to provide proactive care to ensure healthy teeth and gums and manage your risk factors to prevent future disease progression. By maintaining gum health, you will help your heart remain healthy throughout your entire life.