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Gum disease not only affects the mouth, but it can also increase the risk of having a stroke. Find out how oral bacteria affect heart and brain health.
Taking care of your teeth and gums is not just a matter of appearance, it is a preventative step for your heart and your brain.
Good oral hygiene isn't just about a bright smile, it's vital for overall health, especially your heart and brain. Research shows that bacteria from gum disease (periodontitis) can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in blood vessels. This inflammation contributes to plaque buildup, which narrows arteries and increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Dr. Huzaifa Ezzy, Consultant Prosthodontist and Implantologist (MDS), Saifee Hospital, Mumbai, shares everything you need to know.
When gum disease affects more than just your mouth
Chronic gum infections cause persistent inflammation that is not limited to the mouth, but affects the entire body. This systemic inflammation can damage arterial walls and promote clot formation, a key factor leading to strokes.
Certain harmful oral bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, can even invade arterial walls, making them thicker and less elastic. Over time, this can raise blood pressure and further increase the risk of stroke.
The lifestyle connection
Neglecting oral hygiene is often related to other unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as smoking, poor diet, and physical inactivity, all of which aggravate cardiovascular risk.
Studies, including those from the American Heart Association, have shown that people with severe gum disease are almost twice as likely to suffer cardiovascular events, including stroke, compared to those with healthy gums.
Stroke Prevention Through Oral Care
The good news: Maintaining oral health can significantly reduce this risk. The simple daily habits of brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, and scheduling regular dental checkups help control bacterial growth and reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Dr. Ezzy emphasizes: “Oral hygiene should be viewed as an essential part of preventive medicine, not just a cosmetic routine. Healthy gums mean healthier blood vessels and a lower risk of stroke.”
More than just a smile
Taking care of your teeth and gums isn't just about appearance, it's a preventative step for your heart and brain. By keeping oral bacteria under control, you protect more than just your smile; You are protecting your blood vessels, reducing inflammation, and lowering your risk of having a stroke.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of experience, is not just a storyteller; she is a weaver of ingenuity and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read more
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of experience, is not just a storyteller; she is a weaver of ingenuity and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read more
October 29, 2025, 12:47 IST
