American Heart Month: 3 Surprising Ways Your Oral Health Affects Your Heart
February 07, 2026
American Hearth Month: 3 Surprising Ways Your Oral Health Affects Your Heart
February is American Heart Month, a perfect time to show your heart a little extra love. Most people think about heart health in terms of diet, exercise, and stress—but your mouth plays a bigger role than you might expect.
Your oral health and heart health are closely connected. In fact, problems in your mouth can increase your risk for heart disease, while good dental habits can help support a healthier heart. Let’s break down the top three ways your heart and oral health are linked—and why your toothbrush matters more than you think.
1. Gum Disease and Inflammation Go Hand in Hand
Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is a chronic inflammatory condition. And here’s the key word: inflammation.
Inflammation doesn’t stay politely confined to your gums. When gum disease is left untreated, inflammatory bacteria can enter your bloodstream and travel throughout the body. This ongoing inflammation has been linked to:
-Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis)
-Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
-Worsening of existing cardiovascular conditions
Healthy gums help keep inflammation under control, which is good news for your heart. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings aren’t just about preventing cavities—they’re about keeping inflammation from becoming a whole-body issue.
2. Oral Bacteria Can Enter the Bloodstream
Your mouth is full of bacteria—most of it harmless when kept in balance. But when you have gum disease, bleeding gums, or untreated dental infections, harmful bacteria can slip into the bloodstream more easily.
Once there, these bacteria can contribute to serious heart problems, including infective endocarditis, a rare but dangerous infection of the heart’s inner lining or valves. People with certain heart conditions are especially vulnerable, which is why dentists sometimes recommend antibiotics before specific procedures.
The takeaway?
Keeping your mouth healthy helps prevent unwanted bacteria from taking a road trip to places they don’t belong—like your heart.
3. Shared Risk Factors Mean Shared Solutions
Heart disease and poor oral health often share the same risk factors, including:-Smoking or tobacco use
-Poor nutrition
-Diabetes
-High blood pressure
-Stress
For example, diabetes makes it harder to fight infections—including gum disease—and gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels. That two-way relationship can increase the risk of heart complications over time.The good news is that healthy habits benefit both your mouth and your heart. When you commit to better oral hygiene, balanced nutrition, quitting smoking, and regular checkups, you’re tackling multiple health risks at once.
-Poor nutrition
-Diabetes
-High blood pressure
-Stress
For example, diabetes makes it harder to fight infections—including gum disease—and gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels. That two-way relationship can increase the risk of heart complications over time.The good news is that healthy habits benefit both your mouth and your heart. When you commit to better oral hygiene, balanced nutrition, quitting smoking, and regular checkups, you’re tackling multiple health risks at once.
A Healthy Smile Supports a Healthy Heart
Your mouth is not separate from the rest of your body—it’s part of the same system. During American Heart Month, think of your dental routine as part of your heart-care plan.
Simple steps like brushing twice a day, flossing daily, eating a balanced diet, and visiting your dentist regularly can help reduce inflammation, control harmful bacteria, and support your overall cardiovascular health.
So this February, when you’re thinking about ways to protect your heart, don’t forget to start with your smile. ❤️🦷 Your heart just might thank you for it.
Contact Us
Dr. Frank Esfandiari makes it easy to get back on track if it's been a while since you've seen the dentist. You can make an appointment online by clicking here, or call us 805-777-7717.
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