Most Brampton residents know that brushing and flossing protect their teeth, but did you know healthy gums can also protect your heart? New findings show a significant link between gum disease and heart health. At Keshavarz Dentistry, we focus on your overall well-being, not just your teeth.
The connection between your gums and your heart
Your mouth has hundreds of bacterial types. When gums are healthy, bacteria stay in place. But gum disease lets bacteria enter the bloodstream and reach organs, including your heart.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada warns that oral bacteria can reach the heart, cause inflammation, and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Researchers have found oral bacteria inside arterial blockages in heart patients, proving the close relationship between mouth and heart health.
Two heart conditions are linked to poor oral hygiene.
Two particular heart conditions have been linked to poor oral hygiene.
- Atherosclerosis – a gradual buildup of fatty plaque in the arteries that restricts blood flow and raises the risk of a heart attack.
- Infective endocarditis – an inflammation of the heart’s inner lining that can lead to dangerous clot formation.
DYK: Both of these conditions are associated with the same oral bacteria that flourish when gum disease is left untreated.
From gingivitis to heart disease: how it progresses
The link between gingivitis and heart issues begins long before most patients realize anything is wrong. Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, is characterized by inflammation of the gums caused by bacterial plaque buildup. As the Ontario Dental Association (ODA) notes, there is credible medical evidence connecting gum disease to serious systemic conditions, including heart disease and stroke. Left untreated, gingivitis advances into periodontitis, a deeper infection that destroys the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. At this stage, the bacterial load in the mouth increases significantly, and so does the risk of bacteria entering the bloodstream.
Fact: What started as a preventable gum condition can have consequences that reach far beyond your mouth.
Warning signs of gum disease you shouldn’t ignore
Because gum disease is largely painless in its early stages, many patients don’t realize they have it. Watch for these warning signs and, if you notice any, schedule a dental exam in Brampton at our office right away:
• Bleeding gums when you brush or floss
• Red, swollen, or tender gum tissue
• Gums that appear to be pulling away from your teeth
• Persistent bad breath or a metallic taste in your mouth
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pus or discharge between your teeth and gums.
If you have any of these signs, seek professional evaluation. The good news: early gingivitis is completely reversible with proper dental care and home habits.
Preventive dentistry: protects more than your smile
Preventive dentistry matters at our dental clinic. A routine cleaning is more than just polishing teeth; it helps defend against systemic disease. During a professional dental cleaning, our team:
- Removes tartar that home brushing cannot reach
- Reduces bacteria in your mouth, and
- Helps keep harmful organisms out of your bloodstream.
Patients with existing heart conditions deserve particular attention. People with congenital heart disease, valve disease, or those who have undergone heart surgery face a heightened risk of infective endocarditis. If you or a family member has a heart condition, please let our team know. Your dental care plan may need to be tailored accordingly, and coordination with your cardiologist may be appropriate.
We offer a range of dental services in Brampton, including periodontal care, designed with your long-term health in mind. Treating gum disease is not just about saving your teeth. It may also help protect your heart.
Simple steps to protect your gums and your heart
The best defence against both gum disease and its systemic consequences is a consistent daily routine combined with regular professional care.
• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, holding it at a 45-degree angle to your gumline.
• Floss once daily to remove bacteria and food particles from between teeth where your brush cannot reach.
• Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary, starchy foods that feed harmful bacteria.
• Avoid smoking, which significantly increases the risk of both gum disease and heart disease.
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional dental checkups and a thorough periodontal exam.
Dental and cardiac health experts agree on the importance of oral hygiene: maintaining a clean and healthy mouth is one of the most practical steps toward preventing other major health issues. This advice is straightforward, and the benefits for your overall health can be substantial.
Your heart health starts with a dental appointment.
Whether you’re due for a cleaning, noticing gum changes, or prioritizing long-term wellness, our dental staff are gentle, caring and thoughtful, providing:
- Our dentists and dental hygienists speak over 12 languages for your convenience.
- Health Benefits for First Nations & Inuit People
- Direct payment from insurance providers
- Free parking & flexible appointments
- Wheelchair accessibility
- ODSP & CDCP benefits
- Senior discounts
Protect your health – book your preventive dental exam in Brampton today. Call (905) 791-3867 or schedule your appointment online. Take action before a small issue becomes a bigger health concern.
About Dr. Keshavarz, DDS
With over 21 years of experience in dentistry, Dr. Keshavarz has dedicated her career to the profession and to the well-being of her patients. She routinely participates in continuing education and professional training to ensure every patient receives the highest standard of care, and she takes genuine pride in understanding the unique oral health needs of each individual she treats. Outside the office, Dr. Keshavarz enjoys bike riding, especially with her kids. She speaks both English and Farsi and is a member in good standing with the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO).
