Dental Plaque to Heart Attack: The Link Between Your Teeth and Your Heart

When most people think about dental plaque, they picture fuzzy teeth, bad breath, and maybe a scolding from the hygienist. But recent research has uncovered a deeper concern—dental plaque may be more than just a cosmetic issue. It could be a red flag for your heart health.

At Crabapple Dental in Alpharetta, Dr. Sarah Roberts is passionate about helping patients not only protect their smiles but also understand how oral health connects to total-body wellness. If you’ve been putting off your cleanings or ignoring gum irritation, it’s time to learn how a little plaque might be putting a lot more at risk.

The Mouth-Heart Connection: Why It Matters

Your mouth is the gateway to your body—and the health of your gums and teeth can influence what happens beyond your jaw. Dental plaque is a sticky biofilm made of bacteria, food debris, and saliva that builds up on teeth daily. When not removed, plaque can lead to gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontitis (advanced gum disease).

Here’s the twist: The bacteria in plaque don’t just stay in your mouth.

Research from the American Heart Association shows that the same bacteria responsible for gum disease can enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation in blood vessels and potentially contributing to atherosclerosis, or the narrowing of arteries—a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.

Inflammation: The Common Denominator

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection. But when inflammation becomes chronic—such as in untreated gum disease—it can wreak havoc on other systems. Studies suggest that chronic oral inflammation may raise the body’s overall inflammatory burden, which can strain the cardiovascular system.

According to a landmark review in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, individuals with severe periodontal disease had a 20% higher risk of developing heart disease than those with healthy gums.

Signs Your Mouth May Be Signaling a Bigger Problem

If you have any of the following symptoms, your mouth may be harboring harmful bacteria that could affect your cardiovascular health:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Receding gums or loose teeth
• Pus around the gumline
• Chronic dry mouth

While these symptoms are common, they’re not “normal.” Dr. Sarah Roberts emphasizes that early detection and treatment of gum issues can reduce the inflammatory load on your body—and potentially protect your heart in the process.

Who’s Most at Risk?

While anyone with poor oral hygiene can develop plaque buildup and gum disease, certain groups are more vulnerable to the heart risks associated with oral bacteria:

• People with diabetes
• Smokers
• Individuals with a family history of heart disease
• Adults over 40
• Those who have irregular dental care

If you fall into one of these categories and haven’t had a dental cleaning in the last six months, it’s time to make oral health a priority.

What the Science Says

The connection between oral and heart health is backed by a growing body of research:

• A study in Circulation, the journal of the American Heart Association, found oral bacteria in the fatty deposits of arteries in patients with heart disease.
• Researchers from Harvard Medical School concluded that gum disease may double the risk of heart attack.
• In a review of over 120 studies, the Journal of Periodontology noted that regular dental cleanings were associated with lower cardiovascular risk.

“While a causal link has yet to be definitively proven, the correlation is too strong to ignore,” says Dr. Sarah Roberts, who integrates overall health education into every patient consultation at Crabapple Dental.

Protecting Your Smile, Supporting Your Heart

There’s good news: Taking control of your oral hygiene can do more than just give you a brighter smile—it may reduce your cardiovascular risk.

Here’s how to protect both your mouth and your heart:

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Get professional cleanings every 6 months, or more often if recommended
• Quit smoking, which increases both gum disease and heart attack risk
• Eat a balanced diet, rich in anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, berries, and omega-3s
• Manage conditions like diabetes or hypertension that can exacerbate oral and heart issues

What to Expect at Your Visit to Crabapple Dental

At our Alpharetta practice, Dr. Roberts and her experienced team provide comprehensive dental evaluations that include:

• Plaque and tartar assessments
• Gum health evaluations using periodontal probing
• Oral cancer screenings
• Education on at-home care and the mouth-body connection

“Our goal is not just to clean your teeth, but to empower you with the knowledge that your oral health plays a key role in your overall health,” says Dr. Roberts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Plaque and Heart Health

• Can treating gum disease reduce my heart disease risk? While more research is needed, studies suggest that managing gum disease can reduce systemic inflammation and may positively impact heart health.
• How often should I see the dentist if I have heart disease? If you have cardiovascular issues or risk factors, you may need dental cleanings every 3–4 months. Dr. Roberts will create a personalized care plan based on your needs.
• Can dental infections spread to the heart? Yes. In rare cases, oral bacteria can cause endocarditis, a serious heart infection. This is especially concerning for individuals with artificial heart valves or heart defects.
• Is plaque the same as tartar? No. Plaque is a soft, sticky film that forms daily and can be removed with brushing. If left untreated, it hardens into tartar, which requires professional removal.

Schedule a Dental Checkup in Alpharetta Today

If you’re overdue for a cleaning or have concerns about gum health, now’s the time to act. Your heart may depend on it.

At Crabapple Dental, Dr. Sarah Roberts offers compassionate, expert care tailored to your individual health needs. With advanced technology and a focus on prevention, we’re here to help you protect more than just your teeth.

Call today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier mouth—and a healthier heart.