The Connection Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease

Several theories exist to explain the link between periodontal (gum) disease

(receded, red, swollen, inflamed, or bleeding gums) and heart disease.

One theory is that oral bacteria can affect the heart when they enter the blood stream,

attaching to fatty plaques in the coronary arteries (heart blood vessels) and contributing

to clot formation.

Coronary artery disease is characterized by a thickening of the walls of the coronary arteries

due to the buildup of fatty proteins. Blood clots can obstruct normal blood flow, restricting the

amount of nutrients and oxygen required for the heart to function properly. Another possibility

is that the inflammation caused by periodontal disease increases plaque build up, which may

contribute to swelling of the arteries. Either may lead to heart attacks.