Sources :https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2025-11-24/a-root-canals-hidden-beneficiary-the-heart and https://carequest.org/the-relationship-between-oral-health-and-heart-disease/ summarized by ChatGPT
As we continue our Mouth–Body Connection series, this time we’re focusing on the heart and how oral health supports cardiovascular health.
We’ve explained that oral health doesn’t exist in isolation and this is still the same theme when it comes to your heart. When gum disease or dental infections are present, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and contribute to inflammation throughout the body. Over time, this inflammation has been linked to serious heart-related conditions, making oral health an important piece of whole-body care.
What the Research Shows
Studies have identified clear connections between oral health and heart health:
- People with gum disease are about 28% more likely to have a heart attack than those who don’t.
- Oral bacteria can contribute to clogged arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Gum disease is associated with a higher risk of stroke, which can impact vision, mobility, and daily function.
- Oral infections early in life may increase the risk of heart disease later on, reinforcing that oral health matters at every age.
As we age—and especially for those already managing heart-related conditions—keeping inflammation low becomes even more important.
Why Treating Dental Infections Matters
Dental infections don’t always cause constant pain, but they can quietly place stress on the body over time. Recent research has shown that treating infected teeth with root canal therapy may offer benefits beyond the mouth, including:
- Reduced inflammation associated with heart disease
- Short-term improvements in cholesterol levels
- Better blood sugar regulation, which supports cardiovascular health
By removing infection at its source, root canal treatment helps lower the bacterial load the body is fighting which supports balance and healing throughout the system.
The Secret
The secret, however, is avoiding infections, gum disease, and root canals! Remember to come in for your regular dental check ups twice a year, and to practice good oral hygiene at home.
Our Whole-Body Approach to Dental Care
We obviously believe that oral health is a key part of whole-body wellness. Each step taken to prevent or treat gum disease helps reduce inflammation, supports heart health, and contributes to long-term overall health.