What the research says
Gum disease is linked to other health problems, especially diabetes and heart disease. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), part of the National Institutes of Health, has funded about 40 years of research on the oral-systemic connection, meaning how the mouth and the rest of the body affect each other. Its scientists have found links between periodontal (gum) disease and diabetes, heart and blood vessel disease and other conditions.
An honest note: these are links, not proven causes. NIDCR says the connections are well established, but the exact reasons are not fully clear. Gum disease has not been shown to directly cause heart disease. What we can say is that the two often go together, and that taking care of your gums can only help.
Researchers are still working out why the link exists. Some think bacteria from the gums enter the bloodstream. Others point to chronic inflammation. Both ideas are under study, and the full answer may include both.
Gum disease and diabetes: a two-way street
The link with diabetes is the strongest, and it runs both ways.
Diabetes makes gum disease more likely. High blood sugar can weaken the body's defenses against infection and affect blood flow to the gums. People with diabetes tend to have more gum disease, and it can be more severe. In national data, periodontitis was more common among adults with diabetes than among those without.
Gum disease can make diabetes harder to control. Inflammation in the gums can make it harder for the body to use insulin, which may push blood sugar up. Studies suggest that treating gum disease can help some people improve their blood sugar numbers, though results vary.
That means gum care is part of diabetes care. If you have diabetes, tell your dentist, and tell your doctor about your gum health. Keeping your blood sugar in range and your gums healthy helps each other.
A practical tip: if you have diabetes, bring your latest blood sugar numbers (such as your A1C) to your dental visit. They help your dentist judge your risk and plan your care. Also eat and take your medicine as usual before an appointment unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Gum disease and heart disease
Researchers have also found that people with gum disease are more likely to have heart problems. NIDCR describes a study of more than 60,000 dental patients in the Netherlands. Even after accounting for risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking, people with gum disease were 59 percent more likely to have a history of heart problems.
Why might this be? Experts point to two main ideas:
Shared risk factors. Smoking, diabetes and obesity raise the risk of both gum disease and heart disease. So the two often show up in the same person.
Inflammation. Gum disease keeps the body in a state of low-level inflammation. Bacteria and inflammation from the gums may reach the bloodstream. Inflammation is also part of how blood vessels get damaged.
But other studies could not prove that gum disease causes heart attacks or strokes. So no one can promise that treating your gums will protect your heart. What we can say is that you lower your risk factors and your inflammation when you care for your gums, quit smoking and manage your health.
If you have had a heart attack, stroke, heart valve problem or a stent, or if you take blood thinners, let your dentist know before treatment. Sometimes a call to your doctor first is the safest path. Never stop a heart medicine on your own before dental work.
How common is gum disease?
Very common. NIDCR reports that about 42 percent of U.S. adults aged 30 and older have periodontitis, and about 8 percent have the severe form. Among adults 65 and older, almost 60 percent do. Many of these people do not know it, because gum disease often causes no pain in the early stages.
If you have diabetes or heart disease, it is worth checking your gums, since you may be at higher risk.
Rates are higher in some groups than in others. Older adults, people who smoke and people with diabetes are affected more often. National data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have also shown higher rates among some groups of Hispanic adults, which is one more reason to get regular gum exams here in Miami.
What you can do
These steps protect your gums and support your overall health:
- Brush twice a day for two minutes and clean between your teeth every day
- Get regular cleanings and exams. If you have diabetes or gum disease, your dentist may suggest cleanings every three to four months.
- Tell your dentist about your health history and medicines, including diabetes, heart conditions and blood thinners
- Tell your doctor if your gums bleed, swell or hurt
- Keep your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol in the range your doctor sets
- Do not smoke or vape. Tobacco harms your gums and your heart.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary drinks and snacks
Signs to watch for
If your gums bleed, look red or swollen, or your breath will not improve, get checked. Early gum disease can be fully reversed. Periodontitis, the later stage, can be treated and controlled. See your dentist soon if you notice: bleeding gums when you brush or floss; red, swollen or tender gums; bad breath or a bad taste that will not go away; gums that pull away from your teeth; loose teeth or a changed bite.
Chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden weakness or other signs of a heart problem or stroke are emergencies. Call 911. Do not wait for a dental visit.
Caring for your gums is one of the few health steps that is simple, low-cost and within your control. Small daily habits add up over years.
Whole-health gum care at KDA
At Kendall Dental Associates, we look at your gums at every cleaning and exam. Our hygienists spend an hour with you for routine cleanings, so there is time to measure your gums, talk about your health and answer questions. Our dentists use digital X-rays to check the bone around your teeth. Share your health history with us, and we will keep it in mind when we plan your care.
Call 305-271-1421 to book. We are at 8833 SW 107th Ave in Miami, in the Kendall Mall, open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We accept most dental insurances and most Medicare supplemental plans, and financing is available.
Common questions
Can gum disease cause heart disease?
Research shows the two are linked, but it has not proven that gum disease causes heart disease. Shared risk factors, such as smoking and diabetes, explain part of the link.
Does diabetes cause gum disease?
Diabetes raises the risk of gum disease and can make it more severe. Gum disease can also make blood sugar harder to control.
Will treating my gums improve my diabetes?
It may help some people lower their blood sugar numbers, but results vary. Talk to your doctor and your dentist.
Should I tell my dentist about my heart condition?
Yes. Tell your dentist about all health conditions and medicines, especially blood thinners, so your care is safe.
How often should I get a cleaning if I have diabetes?
Many dentists suggest every three to four months if you have gum disease. Your dentist will set the schedule for you.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Your dentist will confirm what is right for you at your exam. General information checked against: nidcr.nih.gov, nidcr.nih.gov, cdc.gov, my.clevelandclinic.org.