Most people don’t exactly look forward to a trip to the dentist, but caring for your smile does far more than protect your teeth and gums — it supports your heart health.
Recognizing how your oral health is connected to your cardiovascular well-being highlights why routine checkups are important and why it’s smart to book an appointment as soon as something feels off.
In honor of American Heart Month, Abir Faraj, DDS, and our team at Novi Family Dentistry in Novi, Michigan, explore how dental issues can impact heart risks, providing the insight you need to stay healthier overall.
Your mouth hosts a thriving community of bacteria — billions of them — representing hundreds of different species. Taken together, they form what’s known as your oral microbiome, a living system that plays a big role in your oral and overall health.
Many of these bacteria are beneficial, helping balance your oral environment while supporting healthy teeth and gums. But others are far less friendly.
Harmful bacteria can cause cavities, gum disease, and other infections in your mouth and beyond. These are the germs that raise your risk of heart problems.
When your mouth is healthy, it does a good job of keeping populations of bad bacteria in check. However, when these harmful microorganisms multiply rapidly, they can overwhelm your defenses, leading to infections such as deep abscesses.
In turn, infections compromise your teeth and gums, making it easier for bacteria to enter your bloodstream and make their way to your heart.
The connection between oral bacteria and heart disease isn’t just guesswork — it’s supported by decades of scientific evidence. In fact, research shows bacteria commonly associated with gum disease also appear in arterial plaques.
Their presence strongly indicates these microbes may contribute to plaque formation, a key factor in coronary artery disease (CAD), heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. Newer studies also point to a relationship between oral bacteria and atrial fibrillation (AFib), a frequent heart rhythm disorder.
Oral infections also create inflammation, and, like with bacteria, that inflammation doesn’t stay confined to your mouth. It affects other parts of your body, including your blood vessels and heart.
Persistent inflammation weakens vessel walls, making it easier for plaque to build up. Over time, chronic inflammation undermines both the structure and function of your cardiovascular system.
Even everyday habits can introduce bacteria into your bloodstream. Brushing, flossing, or chewing while your gums are irritated gives microbes easy access.
But there is some good news: All of these issues can be avoided with regular checkups and prompt attention to toothaches and other signs of infection. By playing a proactive role in your oral health, you avoid more serious problems and reduce your risk of heart-related issues.
Your dental health is strongly tied to your overall well-being, and American Heart Month offers a timely reminder to care for both.
If you notice gum tenderness, tooth pain, or any other unusual symptoms, don’t put off getting help. Book an appointment with our team at Novi Family Dentistry today by calling 313-646-7903 or scheduling online.
