How are gum disease and heart health related?
Studies link gum disease with cardiovascular risk, but association does not prove direct causation. It is not established that gum treatment alone prevents heart attacks or strokes; oral care complements medical prevention.
Details
Interpreting the evidence
Shared factors such as smoking and diabetes can affect both oral and heart health. A fixed percentage increase cannot be assigned to every person, and cleaning tartar should not be promised to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Practical action
Care for your gums and follow medical advice on blood pressure, diabetes and other risks. Share cardiac history and medicines with your dentist. Only selected heart conditions need consideration of preventive antibiotics before certain procedures, not every person with heart disease.
Related question: Do I need antibiotic before tooth extraction?.