The Connection Between Oral and Heart Health

When most people think about dental care, they focus on preventing cavities, keeping their teeth white, and avoiding bad breath. But your oral health is connected to much more than just your smile—it can directly affect your cardiovascular health. At Tolland Hill Family Dental, we want our patients in Tolland, CT, and surrounding communities to understand that maintaining healthy gums and teeth can also help protect your heart.

How Oral Health and Heart Health Are Linked

The mouth is full of bacteria—most harmless, but some harmful if allowed to multiply unchecked. When plaque builds up along the gumline, it can lead to gum disease (periodontal disease). This chronic infection causes inflammation in the gums, and that inflammation doesn’t just stay in your mouth.

Bacteria and inflammatory markers from gum disease can enter the bloodstream, traveling to other parts of the body. Studies have shown that this process may contribute to the narrowing of arteries (atherosclerosis), increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. According to the American Heart Association, people with gum disease are nearly twice as likely to suffer from heart disease compared to those with healthy gums.

Why Gum Disease Is a Risk Factor

Gum disease begins as gingivitis—red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where the infection damages the tissues and bone supporting the teeth. The ongoing inflammation is what makes gum disease so concerning for your cardiovascular health. Chronic inflammation is a well-established factor in the development of heart disease, and gum disease can exacerbate this burden.

Protecting Both Your Smile and Your Heart

The good news is that gum disease is preventable—and so is the potential impact it can have on your cardiovascular health. Here’s what we recommend to patients in Tolland and nearby communities like Ellington, Coventry, and Willington:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque.
• Floss daily to clean between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach.
• Schedule professional cleanings at least twice a year at Tolland Hill Family Dental to remove tartar and catch gum issues early.
• Eat a balanced diet low in sugar to reduce harmful bacteria growth.
• Avoid tobacco use, which significantly increases gum disease risk.

The Role of Regular Dental Checkups

Even if your teeth feel fine, routine dental visits are essential. Many patients don’t realize they have gum disease until it’s advanced, because early stages often cause little to no discomfort. Our team can spot early signs of inflammation, bleeding, or gum recession long before they become serious problems.

For patients with heart disease or a family history of cardiovascular issues, it’s especially important to share that information with your dentist. We can tailor your care plan and work with your physician to protect both your oral and overall health.

Your Health Is Connected—Let’s Keep It Strong

At Tolland Hill Family Dental, we see your smile as part of a bigger picture—your whole-body health. By prioritizing daily oral hygiene and regular professional care, you’re not only protecting your teeth and gums but also taking an important step toward a healthier heart.

Ready for your next checkup? Call us today to schedule your appointment and take care of your smile and your cardiovascular health—because a healthy mouth can mean a healthier life.