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It might sound surprising, but brushing and flossing every day could help protect your heart. Taking care of your mouth may lower your risk for heart attacks, strokes, and other serious problems.
Recent studies show a strong link between gum disease and the connection to heart disease. Keeping your mouth clean can help your whole body. It only takes a few minutes a day and could add years to your life.
Here’s what you need to know—and five ways to protect both your teeth and your heart.
The Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Health
Nearly half of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease. This happens when bacteria infect the gums, bone, and tissue around the teeth.
Gum disease causes swelling, bleeding, and sometimes tooth loss. But it can also lead to problems far beyond the mouth. This includes higher risk for:
- Heart attacks
- Strokes
- Diabetes
- Inflammation in the body
Researchers now believe that the relationship between oral health and heart disease is very real. The same bacteria that cause gum problems may spread through the bloodstream. They can reach the heart and blood vessels, making things worse.
Can Dental Health Affect Your Heart?
Yes. In fact, not brushing and flossing regularly may raise your risk of death. One study of over 5,000 adults found that people who skipped flossing had a 30% higher death rate. Skipping brushing at night raised the risk by 20–25%.
Why? Because bacteria in your mouth can form sticky plaque. If left alone, plaque hardens into tartar. This causes your gums to get sore and bleed—a sign of early gum disease, also known as gingivitis.
That bacteria can also cause swelling in other parts of the body. Experts believe this may lead to heart palpitations, clogged arteries, and more.
So, does dental health affect your heart? Yes, in more ways than one.
5 Simple Ways to Keep Your Gums—and Heart—Healthy
1. Brush and Floss Twice a Day
Don’t skip the basics. Brush in the morning and at night. Use a sonic or electric toothbrush for better results.
Flossing helps remove food and plaque from between the teeth. Don’t just snap the floss up and down. Instead, wrap it around each tooth and clean gently.
2. Go to Bed with a Clean Mouth
Saliva helps protect your mouth. But when you sleep, your body makes less of it. That’s why it’s important to brush and floss before bed.
Use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from your tongue. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
3. Chew Sugar-Free Gum with Xylitol
This kind of gum helps reduce bacteria. Xylitol can lower the risk of cavities and gum disease. You can also try toothpaste or mints with xylitol for extra support.
4. Get Dental Cleanings Every 3 Months
Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar. Ask your dentist to check your gums during each visit.
If you already have gum disease, your dentist may suggest a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. They may also recommend special rinses or oral antibiotics.
5. Watch for Early Warning Signs
Gum disease and heart disease symptoms can show up slowly. Don’t ignore these common signs:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
If you notice any of these, make a dental appointment right away.
Preventing Heart Attacks Starts with Healthy Gums
Keeping your mouth clean may be one of the easiest ways to protect for your heart. It costs very little and takes just a few minutes each day.
And it’s not just about preventing cavities. Gum health affects more than your smile. It may also reduce your risk for strokes, diabetes, teeth and heart valve disease, and other serious health issues.
Even small steps can make a big difference. A soft brush, floss, clean water, and regular checkups can go a long way.
Final Thoughts
Healthy gums are about more than fresh breath and white teeth. They protect the body from swelling and harmful bacteria. This may lower the risk for gum disease and heart disease symptoms, including chest pain, heart palpitations, and more.
If you haven’t had a dental checkup in a while, now is a good time to schedule one. Ask your provider about your gum health and how it might affect your heart.
FAQs
Can gum disease increase heart attack risk?
Yes. Gum disease causes swelling that may lead to blocked arteries or heart problems.
Does brushing your teeth really help your heart?
Yes. Daily brushing and flossing help reduce harmful bacteria that can affect your blood vessels.
Can bad oral health lead to heart palpitations?
It might. Inflammation from gum disease may affect the heart and lead to irregular rhythms.
About the Author: Amy Doneen
