Protect Your Heart by Protecting Your Smile

February is recognized as American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular disease and the steps we can take to protect our hearts. While most people associate heart health with exercise, diet, and cholesterol levels, far fewer realize that their oral health—particularly the health of their gums—plays an important role in overall cardiovascular wellness.

At RVA Periodontics, we believe in caring for more than just your smile. We focus on the whole-body connection, especially the powerful relationship between periodontal (gum) disease and heart disease. Research continues to show that what happens in your mouth does not stay in your mouth. In fact, chronic inflammation in the gums may influence inflammation throughout the body, including in the heart and blood vessels. This American Heart Month, let’s explore how oral health, periodontal disease, and cardiovascular health are connected—and what you can do to protect both your smile and your heart.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. It begins as gingivitis, which causes redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. Without proper treatment, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to:

• Gum recession

• Bone loss

• Loose teeth

• Tooth loss

• Chronic infection

• Persistent inflammation

Periodontal disease is extremely common. Millions of adults experience some form of gum disease, often without realizing it. Because early symptoms can be mild or painless, many people do not seek treatment until the disease has advanced.

But gum disease is not only a dental issue—it is a systemic one.

What Is Heart Disease?

Heart disease is a broad term that includes conditions such as:

• Coronary artery disease

• Heart attacks

• Stroke

• High blood pressure

• Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)

These conditions often develop due to chronic inflammation and plaque buildup inside blood vessels, which restricts blood flow and increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events.

While genetics and lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise play major roles, inflammation is now recognized as a key contributor to heart disease. This is where oral health enters the conversation.

The Inflammation Connection

Inflammation is the body’s natural defense against infection or injury. However, when inflammation becomes chronic—as it does in periodontal disease—it can harm healthy tissues and organs.

When gums are infected, bacteria can enter the bloodstream through inflamed gum tissue. This may trigger:

• Increased systemic inflammation

• Immune system responses affecting blood vessels

• Formation or acceleration of arterial plaque

• Worsening of existing cardiovascular conditions

Scientific studies have shown that people with periodontal disease are more likely to experience heart disease and stroke than those with healthy gums. While periodontal disease does not directly cause heart disease, it appears to be a significant contributing risk factor.

How Bacteria from the Mouth Can Affect the Heart

The mouth contains hundreds of types of bacteria. When gums are healthy, these bacteria are usually well controlled. But with periodontal disease, harmful bacteria multiply and penetrate the gum tissue.

Once bacteria enter the bloodstream, they can:

• Attach to fatty deposits in arteries

• Contribute to clot formation

• Increase arterial inflammation

• Worsen plaque buildup

This can increase the risk of atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries become narrowed or hardened, restricting blood flow to the heart and brain.

Shared Risk Factors Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease

Periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease share many of the same risk factors, including:

• Smoking or tobacco use

• Diabetes

• Poor nutrition

• Obesity

• Chronic stress

• Genetics

• Poor oral hygiene

• Limited access to healthcare

Because these conditions are interconnected, managing one can positively affect the other. For example, controlling gum disease may reduce systemic inflammation and improve overall health outcomes.

The Role of Periodontists in Heart Health

Periodontists specialize in diagnosing and treating gum disease and supporting bone structures. Their work is critical not only for preserving teeth but also for helping patients reduce inflammatory burden in the body.

At RVA Periodontics, our approach includes:

• Early detection of periodontal disease

• Personalized treatment plans

• Advanced non-surgical and surgical therapies

• Ongoing maintenance and monitoring

• Patient education about the oral-systemic connection

By treating gum disease effectively, we help reduce infection and inflammation—two key contributors to systemic health issues.

Why Oral Health Is Especially Important for Cardiac Patients

Individuals who already have heart disease, have had a heart attack, or are managing high blood pressure should be especially vigilant about oral health.

Untreated periodontal disease can:

• Complicate recovery

• Increase inflammation levels

• Place additional strain on the immune system

• Heighten the risk of infection

Many cardiologists now recognize oral health as part of comprehensive cardiovascular care.

Warning Signs of Gum Disease

Because gum disease often progresses silently, it is important to know the warning signs:

• Bleeding when brushing or flossing

• Red, swollen, or tender gums

• Persistent bad breath

• Gum recession

• Loose teeth

• Pain when chewing

• Pus around the gums

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule a periodontal evaluation promptly.

How to Protect Both Your Gums and Your Heart

Protecting your oral health supports your overall health. Small daily habits can make a significant difference.

1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste

• Floss or use interdental cleaners daily

• Use antimicrobial mouth rinses when recommended

2. Schedule Regular Dental and Periodontal Visits

Professional cleanings and exams allow early detection of gum disease and help prevent progression.

3. Quit Smoking or Tobacco Use

Tobacco greatly increases the risk of both gum disease and heart disease.

4. Manage Chronic Conditions

Diabetes, high blood pressure, and immune disorders all affect gum health.

5. Eat a Balanced, Heart-Healthy Diet

Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains support immune function and reduce inflammation.

6. Stay Active and Manage Stress

Exercise and stress reduction benefit both oral and cardiovascular systems.

The Mouth as a Window to Overall Health

Your mouth is one of the first places inflammation can be seen. Bleeding gums are not normal, and they should never be ignored. They may be an early warning sign of a larger systemic issue.

Modern dentistry recognizes that oral health is deeply connected to:

• Heart health

• Diabetes management

• Respiratory health

• Pregnancy outcomes

• Immune function

Periodontal care is no longer just about saving teeth—it is about supporting long-term wellness.

Why February Is the Perfect Time to Prioritize Gum Health

American Heart Month is an ideal opportunity to reflect on how everyday habits influence your body. Many people focus on gym memberships and cholesterol numbers this time of year, but oral health should be part of that conversation.

Improving gum health can:

• Reduce inflammation

• Improve comfort and confidence

• Protect natural teeth

• Support heart and vascular health

• Enhance overall quality of life

Partnering in Your Health at RVA Periodontics

At RVA Periodontics, we believe prevention and education are just as important as treatment. Our goal is to help patients understand the connection between their oral health and their overall well-being.

We are proud to support American Heart Month by reminding our community that:

Healthy gums are not just about a beautiful smile—they are about a healthy body and a healthy heart.

If you have concerns about gum disease, bleeding gums, or inflammation, we encourage you to schedule a periodontal evaluation. Taking care of your gums today may help protect your heart tomorrow.