Why does gingivitis cause heart disease?

Does a healthy mouth equal a healthy heart? WebMD talks to heart ... "I absolutely believe there is a strong correlation between oral disease and heart function." Continue ... There are two main types: gingivitis, which causes red, painful, tender gums, and periodontitis, which leads to infected pockets of germy pus. read more

Some people are genetically more prone to periodontal and gum disease than others. So if it runs in your family, you should be especially vigilant. Get any symptoms checked out right away. Specific conditions that might be related to heart disease are: Gingivitis. read more

For example, the link between smoking and heart disease is well known. Smokers are also more likely to practice poor oral hygiene and to have oral cancers, periodontitis and gingivitis. Diabetes can also lead to dry mouth, poorly healing gums and thrush (a yeast infection in the mouth and throat). read more

A lot, according to a slew of recent studies that have linked gum disease, or periodontitis, to an increased risk of heart disease. The connection made sense, since the two conditions share common drivers, such as inflammation. read more