In recent years, there has been a steady increase in the awareness of the links between oral health and systemic illness. However, this knowledge is not necessarily available to every patient, with many unaware of the impact that their oral hygiene is having on their overall health and vice versa. One particular area of focus amongst dental professionals and health researchers has been the impact of the mouth on heart health, with an increasing pool of evidence examining the correlation between dental diseases and periodontal inflammation on cardiovascular diseases and associated issues. As such, it’s important that dental professionals understand the links, and the ways in which prevention and management techniques may have an effect on patients’ general health.
What are the links?
Research strongly suggests that periodontitis has consequences for overall health, particularly when it comes to cardiovascular disease and associated conditions (endocarditis, hypertension, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia).[i] Repeatedly, studies have found that those with poor oral health are at increased risk of cardiovascular problems – more commonly experiencing a heart attack or stroke than people with good oral health.[ii]
There are a number of theories that aim to describe why this correlation exists. The first is that gingivitis and periodontitis-causing bacteria (Streptococcus mutans, Treponema denticola and Porphyromonas gingivalis[iii]) also travel to blood vessels elsewhere in the body where they cause inflammation. As a consequence of this inflammation and resulting damage, blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes may occur. This is supported by the discovery of these bacteria far from the oral cavity, however antibiotics have not been found to be effective in the reduction of cardiovascular risk.[iv]
An alternative theory is that, rather than bacteria being the source of the problem, the body’s immune response is the real culprit. This theory suggests that inflammation leads to vascular damage throughout the whole body affecting the heart and the brain. Some research also suggests that there is not a direct connection at all. Instead, the reason for the correlation may lie with a common risk factor for both illnesses (like smoking, for example), a genetic pre-disposition for both disorders, or socioeconomic factors which restrict access to healthcare.[v]
Managing at-risk patients
Whilst there is limited research surrounding the management of patients who may be at increased risk of both poor oral health and cardiovascular health, a study from Korea found that frequent toothbrushing and regular dental appointment for professional cleaning reduced the risk of future cardiovascular events by 9% and 14%, respectively.[vi] Overall, there is evidence that periodontal therapy may contribute to improved outcomes relating to cardiovascular pathologies. It is thought that this is due to a decrease in systemic inflammation.[vii]
Oral hygiene for reduced inflammation
Plaque build-up causes gingival disease and periodontitis, leading to inflammation, infection, and tooth loss if untreated. As discussed, it is thought that the effects of this extend beyond the mouth, potentially causing systemic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, a leading cause of death globally.[viii]
As such, it’s important for there to be a focus on prevention. Research suggests that periodontal disease treatment can reduce inflammation. This highlights the importance of oral health management and public health initiatives which emphasise oral hygiene.[ix]
BioMin® understands the importance of oral hygiene as a preventative strategy. Developed by scientists and clinicians at Queen Mary University of London, the BioMin® range of toothpastes offer superior protection against acids and bacteria in the mouth. When used as recommended, the BioMin® F formula creates a strong fluorapatite layer over the tooth and within exposed tubules, effectively protecting the enamel.
It is important to recommend high-quality toothpastes to patients – both those who are at a high-risk and those who would benefit from preventative measures. Cardiovascular disease is a serious public health concern, and dental professionals are best placed to pick up on potential oral health risk factors to reduce the changes of a future diagnosis or cardiac event. With links between oral bacteria, inflammation, and cardiovascular disease becoming more established in the research, it is important that the correlation is taken seriously, and that patients are made aware of the potential impact of their oral hygiene on their overall health and wellbeing.
The science is clear. The solution is simple.
www.biomin.co.uk
Back in Stock Soon!
We are currently experiencing a temporary disruption in supply across many of our usual stockists due to regulatory issues. While this is a temporary pause, it’s a part of ensuring we meet the highest standards and continue to provide safe and trusted products to our customers.
We’re working hard behind the scenes to resolve this and will be sharing updates on our website as soon as we have a clearer timeline.
Your patience and continued support is truly appreciated.
Author: Alec Hilton CEO BioMin Technologies Ltd.
[i] Hopkins, S., Gajagowni, S., Qadeer, Y., Wang, Z., Virani, S.S., Meurman, J.H., Leischik, R., Lavie, C.J., Strauss, M. and Krittanawong, C., 2024. More than just teeth: How oral health can affect the heart. American Heart Journal Plus: Cardiology Research and Practice, 43, p.100407.
[ii] https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/gum-disease-and-the-connection-to-heart-disease
[iii] Loesche WJ. Microbiology of Dental Decay and Periodontal Disease. In: Baron S, editor. Medical Microbiology. 4th edition. Galveston (TX): University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston; 1996. Chapter 99. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK8259/
[iv] https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/gum-disease-and-the-connection-to-heart-disease
[v] https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/gum-disease-and-the-connection-to-heart-disease
[vi] Park, S.Y., Kim, S.H., Kang, S.H., Yoon, C.H., Lee, H.J., Yun, P.Y., Youn, T.J. and Chae, I.H., 2019. Improved oral hygiene care attenuates the cardiovascular risk of oral health disease: a population-based study from Korea. European heart journal, 40(14), pp.1138-1145.
[vii] Hopkins, S., Gajagowni, S., Qadeer, Y., Wang, Z., Virani, S.S., Meurman, J.H., Leischik, R., Lavie, C.J., Strauss, M. and Krittanawong, C., 2024. More than just teeth: How oral health can affect the heart. American Heart Journal Plus: Cardiology Research and Practice, 43, p.100407.
[viii] Zaman, M.S., Alam, S.G. and Razzaque, M.S., 2025. Oral Hygiene and Cardiovascular Health. Hygiene, 5(2), p.14.
[ix] Zaman, M.S., Alam, S.G. and Razzaque, M.S., 2025. Oral Hygiene and Cardiovascular Health. Hygiene, 5(2), p.14.
