Gum Disease and Heart Health: What Is Known and What Is Not
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Key facts
The American Heart Association found that gum disease is associated with heart and blood-vessel disease independent of known risk factors, but the evidence does not show that gum disease causes it.
What the American Heart Association concluded
In a 2012 scientific statement, the AHA reviewed the research and found an association between gum disease and atherosclerotic vascular disease that was independent of known confounders. It also found the evidence does not support a causal relationship, and that strong evidence is lacking that treating gum disease reduces heart attacks or strokes.
Why the link may exist
Researchers have proposed several explanations, including shared risk factors such as smoking and diabetes, and the body-wide inflammation that chronic infections can cause. These explanations are still being studied.
Why oral health still matters for heart patients
- Healthy teeth and gums support eating, comfort and quality of life during recovery.
- Many cardiac surgery programs ask for a dental check before heart valve surgery, to address infection sources in advance.
- Gum disease shares risk factors with heart disease, so it can be a prompt for broader prevention.
Frequently asked questions
Does gum disease cause heart attacks?
The evidence shows a link, not proof that gum disease causes heart attacks.
Will treating gum disease prevent heart disease?
That has not been shown. Treat gum disease for oral health, not as heart treatment.
Why do heart surgeons sometimes ask for a dental check?
To find and treat mouth infections before certain heart procedures.
Coordinate dental input for cardiac patients.
Please do not include patient information.