Align Health Library
Healthy gums support a healthy heart
Growing evidence suggests healthy gums may support more than your smile. We look at what current research tells us about the link between gum disease and cardiovascular disease, and how maintaining good oral health may be part of supporting your overall wellbeing.
How can gum disease affect heart health?
Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gums and the structures that support your teeth. As it progresses, bacteria and inflammatory molecules can enter the bloodstream through everyday activities like brushing, flossing or chewing.
Researchers believe this may contribute to inflammation of the blood vessel lining and the development of atherosclerosis, a key factor in heart attack and stroke risk.
Why it matters
Gum disease and heart disease share several risk factors, which is why maintaining healthy gums can be considered one part of a healthy lifestyle.
Research has also linked poorer oral health with poorer blood pressure control, and found that periodontal treatment may slow early markers of atherosclerosis. Studies into shared genetic pathways are ongoing.
Signs you may notice
Your gums may be telling you more than you think.
- Bleeding gums: healthy gums shouldn't bleed. Bleeding during brushing or flossing is often an early sign of gum inflammation.
- Red or swollen gums: inflamed gums may appear red, swollen or tender.
- Gum recession or loose teeth: these may indicate more advanced periodontal disease.
- Persistent bad breath: ongoing bad breath can be a sign of gum infection.
- Changes in your smile: shifts in spacing or tooth position can occur as gum disease advances.
Risk factors we consider
- Smoking: raises the risk of both gum disease and heart disease.
- Diabetes: poorly controlled diabetes increases the risk of periodontal disease.
- Family history: a family history of cardiovascular disease helps us understand your overall risk profile.
- High blood pressure: an important part of your medical history when planning dental care.
- Your medical history: medications, lifestyle factors and other health conditions help us personalise your care.
Why we ask about your heart health
If you have a heart condition, particularly one associated with a risk of infective endocarditis, or take medications such as blood thinners, this can affect how we plan your treatment.
Let us know about any heart conditions, planned procedures or medications so we can tailor your care and coordinate with your GP or cardiologist where appropriate.
How Align Dental Surgery helps
- Comprehensive periodontal assessment
- Personalised risk assessment
- Ongoing monitoring for higher-risk patients
- Evidence-based periodontal treatment
- Collaborative care with your GP or cardiologist where appropriate
About the author
Dr Alexia Kwan is a director and senior dental surgeon at Align Dental Surgery, with a particular interest in Invisalign for children. She also works in implants, wisdom tooth surgery and cosmetic dentistry such as veneers, crowns and bridges, and offers general dentistry for adults and children.
The Align Health Library is her initiative to explain, in plain language, what current research says about the connection between oral health and general health.
Questions & answers
Common questions
Does gum disease cause heart disease?
If I have a heart condition, do I need to tell my dentist?
Can treating my gums lower my heart disease risk?
How often should I have my gums checked if I have a family history of heart disease?
Sources
References & further reading
The research behind this guide. Ask us at your next visit if you would like to know more about any of these studies.
- American Heart Association / Tran et al. Periodontal Disease and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation, 2025.
- Sanz, M., et al. Periodontitis and cardiovascular diseases: Consensus report. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 2020.
- Pietropaoli, D., et al. Poor Oral Health and Blood Pressure Control Among US Hypertensive Adults: NHANES 2009-2014. Hypertension, 2018.
- Orlandi, M., et al. Periodontitis treatment and progression of carotid intima-media thickness: a randomized trial. European Heart Journal, 2025.
- Jin, et al. Exploring the shared genetic architecture between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease. BDJ Open, 2026.
- American Heart Association Newsroom. Gum disease may be linked to plaque buildup in arteries, higher risk of major CVD events, 2025.
Patient resources: American Heart Association · American Academy of Periodontology · European Federation of Periodontology
Book a visit
Healthy gums are an important part of your overall health
Book a comprehensive dental assessment with Align Dental Surgery in Singapore to better understand the connection between your oral health and your wellbeing.