Most people think of gum disease as a dental problem — bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth. But decades of research have revealed a much more significant connection: periodontal disease significantly increases your risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke.
At Aloha Dental Specialty Center, we take gum disease seriously — not just for your smile, but for your overall health.
What the Research Shows
Multiple large-scale studies have established a clear link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular conditions:
- People with gum disease are 2-3 times more likely to have a heart attack or stroke
- The bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and contribute to arterial plaque buildup
- Chronic inflammation from gum disease triggers systemic inflammatory responses that damage blood vessels
- The American Heart Association has acknowledged the association between periodontal disease and heart disease
Beyond Heart Disease: Other Systemic Connections
Gum disease has also been linked to:
- Diabetes: Gum disease makes blood sugar control more difficult, and uncontrolled diabetes worsens gum disease — a dangerous two-way relationship
- Pregnancy complications: Pregnant women with gum disease have higher rates of preterm birth and low birth weight
- Respiratory infections: Bacteria from infected gums can be aspirated into the lungs
- Alzheimer’s disease: Emerging research links periodontal bacteria to brain inflammation
Protecting Your Heart Through Dental Care
The good news: treating gum disease reduces systemic inflammation and may lower your cardiovascular risk. Our periodontal treatment options include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), laser therapy, and maintenance programs designed to keep your gums healthy for life.
Schedule a periodontal evaluation at Aloha Dental Specialty Center. Call (503) 822-0096.
Schedule Your Consultation
When you’re considering complex dental treatment, we’re happy to walk through your options. Our specialist team is located right here in the Tualatin Valley corridor. Contact our experienced clinical team today to secure your comprehensive 3D CBCT diagnostic assessment.
📍 Clinic Location: 18455 SW Alexander St, Suite B, Beaverton, OR 97006 | Serving the Portland Metro area.
Conveniently located in Beaverton, OR — serving Aloha, Hillsboro, and the Portland west side.
Related: Periodontal treatment at ADSC
Se habla Español — Llame al (503) 822-0096
Consult with Dr. Walied Eldomiaty, DDS
Periodontist & Implant Surgeon • Aloha Dental Specialty Center
Residency-trained periodontist specializing in LANAP laser gum surgery, bone regeneration, and implant placement.
