Can gum disease raise your risk of stroke?

If you've been told you have gum disease, you may be wondering what that means for your overall health, including your risk of stroke. Studies have found a link between the two, but this does not mean gum disease directly causes a stroke. Gum disease is common and can damage the gums and bone that hold your teeth in place. Treating it protects your mouth, even though it has not been proven to prevent a stroke. 

What you will learn in this article: 

• Studies link gum disease with a higher risk of stroke and other heart-related problems. 

• Researchers have not proven that gum disease directly causes a stroke. 

• About 2 in 5 U.S. adults age 30 or older with natural teeth have some form of gum disease. 

• Treating gum disease protects your teeth and gums, but it has not been proven to lower stroke risk. 

Not sure what your gum health means for your overall health? Schedule an appointment with an Aspen Dental provider. Your care team can check for gum disease and help protect your smile. 

What is the connection between gum disease and stroke? 

Gum disease is an infection that causes swelling in the tissues around your teeth. It begins when plaque and bacteria build up along the gumline. As the disease gets worse, it can damage the gums and bone that support your teeth. 

The American Heart Association (AHA) reports that gum disease is associated with cardiovascular events, including stroke. However, it also says that a cause-and-effect relationship has not been confirmed. Researchers are studying whether bacteria entering the blood and long-term inflammation may help explain the link.¹ 

Gum disease and stroke also share risk factors, such as smoking, diabetes, obesity and older age. These shared risks can make it difficult to know how much gum disease itself contributes. Gum disease’s possible ties to other conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, are also being explored.²

How common is gum disease? 

Gum disease is common. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) reports that 42.2% of U.S. adults age 30 or older with natural teeth had some form of periodontitis. The estimate is based on national survey data collected from 2009 through 2014.³ 

That is about 2 in every 5 adults in this group. Gum disease may begin with red, swollen or bleeding gums, but people do not always recognize these early signs. 

What are common signs of gum disease? 

The NIDCR lists these possible signs of gum disease. 

• Red, swollen or sore gums 

• Gums that bleed easily 

• Gums pulling away from your teeth 

• Bad breath that does not go away 

• Loose or sensitive teeth 

• Pain when chewing⁴

If your gums become very swollen or you also have a fever, get prompt care. Tell your dental provider about any other signs you notice. A dental exam can help show whether you have gum disease and how far it has progressed. 

Can taking care of your gums help protect your health? 

Taking care of your gums protects your teeth and the tissues that hold them in place. It cannot guarantee that you will avoid a stroke, but it can help prevent gum disease from getting worse. 

Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Clean between your teeth regularly with floss or another tool recommended by your dental provider. Visit your dental provider for routine checkups and professional cleanings. If you use tobacco, quitting can also improve your gum health and treatment results.⁴ 

If you’re concerned about your gum health, talk with your dental provider. They can check for signs of gum disease and recommend treatment to help control infection and protect your teeth, gums and supporting bone.

Can gum disease raise your risk of stroke? FAQs 

Still have questions about gum disease and stroke risk? These answers cover a few common concerns. 

Is gum disease linked to other health conditions besides stroke? 

Research has also found links between gum disease and heart attack, atrial fibrillation, heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions. These links do not prove that gum disease directly causes any of these conditions. 

Can treating gum disease lower your stroke risk? 

There is no direct evidence that treating gum disease prevents cardiovascular disease or lowers your risk of stroke. The AHA says more long-term studies and clinical trials are needed.¹ Treating gum disease is still important because it controls infection and helps protect your teeth, gums and supporting bone.  

Who is more likely to get gum disease? 

Smoking or using tobacco is a major risk factor. Older age, diabetes and genetics can also raise your risk. Poor brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up, which can lead to gum disease.⁴

When should you see a dental provider about gum disease? 

See a dental provider if your gums bleed, swell or feel sore. You should also make an appointment if your gums pull away from your teeth, your teeth feel loose or your bad breath does not go away. Sudden pain, major swelling or fever needs prompt care. 

Sources 

¹ American Heart Association, Newsroom: “Gum disease may be linked to plaque buildup in arteries, higher risk of major CVD events.” https://newsroom.heart.org/news/gum-disease-may-be-linked-to-plaque-buildup-in-arteries-higher-risk-of-major-cvd-events 
² National Institute on Aging: "Large study links gum disease with dementia." https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/large-study-links-gum-disease-dementia 

³ National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: “Periodontal Disease in Adults (Age 30 or Older).” https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/research/data-statistics/periodontal-disease/adults 

⁴ National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: “Periodontal (Gum) Disease.” https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/gum-disease