It’s a well-known fact that diet can affect your cardiovascular health, but recent research suggests that it’s not just what you put in your mouth that can lead to heart problems…it’s how you take care of your mouth as well.  “There have been several studies over the past few years that show a possible association between untreated periodontal disease and a higher incidence of heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes,” notes Sally J. Cram, DDS a practicing periodontist in Washington, DC, and consumer advisor for the American Dental Association (www.ada.org). “These studies do not show a definite cause and effect between gum disease and heart attacks, but they do suggest a strong association.”

What’s the connection? According to Cram, the most likely culprit is bacteria. “Gum disease is a bacterial infection in the gum and bone surrounding the teeth,” explains Cram. “These bacteria can enter the bloodstream and trigger the release of certain chemicals that cause inflammation in the lining of the blood vessels, which in turn causes fatty plaques to accumulate in the walls of the vessels, blocking blood flow to the heart.”

Of course, it takes more than good oral hygiene to maintain a healthy heart, but you can lower your risk of having a coronary by practicing healthy dental habits. “If you’re at high risk of cardiovascular disease, you should definitely care for your teeth,” advises Diann Bomkamp, RDH, BSDH, president of the American Dental Hygienists Association (www.adha.org). “But even if you’re not high risk, you can help protect your heart by protecting your teeth.”

You probably already know the rules: “Brush and floss twice a day,” says Bomkamp. But, when it comes to flossing, quality is as important as quantity. “Make sure you get under the gums.” And, if you need another excuse to quit smoking, here it is: “The chemicals and heat from cigarettes can aggravate the tissue in your mouth,” notes Bomkamp.

Also, make sure you see your dentist regularly, because periodontal issues are not always obvious to the untrained eye. “Warning signs of gum disease include bleeding or red, sore gums, loose or shifting teeth, and receding gums,” says Cram. “Unfortunately, by the time you experience pain with gum disease, it is often too late and you may be in danger of tooth loss.”

Basically, minimum effort can save you from major problems, according to Cram: “By spending less than five minutes a day to brush and floss, and seeing your dentist regularly, you could potentially be reducing your risk of serious heart issues as well as saving your teeth.”