A new study reveals that treating gum disease could significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Researchers from University College London (UCL) found that intensive dental cleanings, such as full-mouth deep cleanings with frequent follow-ups, can lower cardiovascular risk by up to 10% each year. The findings, published in the European Heart Journal, show that participants who received this type of treatment had improved artery health, reduced inflammation, and fewer bacteria entering the bloodstream compared to those who received standard dental care.
The study, which tracked 135 adults with periodontitis—a severe form of gum disease—found that after two years, participants who received intensive treatment had a 0.02 millimeter reduction in carotid artery thickening. This reduction corresponds to a 10% decrease in cardiovascular disease risk, according to Dr. Marco Orlandi, a co-author of the trial. The researchers emphasized that these changes in artery health, along with reduced gum inflammation, indicate that improved oral health may play a crucial role in preventing heart and brain events such as heart attacks and strokes.
Professor John Deanfield, the lead author of the study and director of cardiovascular prevention at UCL, stated that the findings provide robust evidence linking oral and cardiovascular health. Addressing periodontitis could become a powerful tool in preventing serious heart and brain events, he said. Meanwhile, Dr. Catrise Austin, a New York City cosmetic dentist, highlighted the importance of gum health in overall vascular health. She noted that doctors and cardiologists should pay closer attention to their patients’ gum health and consider simple questions like, ‘Do your gums bleed when you brush?’ as a way to identify early signs of systemic inflammation.
The study, supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and the NIHR UCLH Biomedical Research Center in collaboration with University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, adds to a growing body of research linking gum health to overall well-being. Previous studies have shown correlations between gum disease and higher cardiovascular risk, but this study provides compelling evidence that treating gum disease may indeed reduce the chances of heart attacks and strokes. For patients, the researchers recommend maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing, getting regular professional cleanings, quitting smoking, and managing related conditions like diabetes.
Additionally, the study found that the benefits of intensive dental care are most pronounced when patients are otherwise healthy and not taking regular medication, allowing researchers to isolate the effects of gum disease treatment. The team also emphasized that further research is needed to fully understand the long-term impact of these findings and to explore potential collaborations between dental and medical professionals to address the cardiovascular implications of gum disease.