Inflammation that begins in the gums can have a significant impact on overall health, according to Maria Delgado-Lelievre, M.D., a cardiologist and director of the Comprehensive Hypertension Center at the University of Miami Health System. Dr. Delgado explains that gum disease allows inflammatory markers to enter the bloodstream, which can then affect other parts of the body.
“Gum tissue is full of tiny blood vessels. Healthy gums act as a barrier. However, when plaque buildup or infection causes gum disease, the tissue becomes inflamed and can bleed. It’s like injecting inflammation through your mouth into the rest of your body,” said Dr. Delgado.
These inflammatory molecules may impact the endothelium, which lines every blood vessel and plays an important role in regulating blood pressure, blood flow, and insulin response. Inflammation in this lining can disrupt these functions, potentially affecting both blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
Chronic gum disease has been linked to reduced sensitivity to insulin and higher blood sugar levels. For individuals with diabetes, gum disease may worsen their condition and interfere with how well blood pressure medications work.
“The good news is that when you calm inflammation in one part of the body, you improve your overall health. Healthy gums support healthy blood vessels, which support better blood pressure and glucose control,” Dr. Delgado stated.
Dr. Delgado noted that dental and medical care are often separate in the United States, despite evidence connecting oral health to cardiovascular health. Dentists may notice signs of hypertension or inflammation during routine visits but this information does not always reach primary care providers.
Emerging research links periodontitis (gum disease) to increased rates of cardiovascular disease; conversely, treating gum disease may help improve blood pressure control and make medications more effective.
“It’s not like brushing your teeth replaces medication, but good oral health supports everything else we do for blood pressure and diabetes. It helps the body respond better to treatment,” said Dr. Delgado.
Dr. Delgado offered four tips for improving heart health: brush and floss daily; visit a dentist twice a year; quit smoking; and reduce whole-body inflammation through diet, weight management, and stress reduction.
She emphasized that “when you calm inflammation in your mouth, you protect the rest of your body.” She also pointed out that because gums and heart share the same blood vessels, oral care is important for cardiovascular health as well as dental hygiene.
The Comprehensive Hypertension Center at University of Miami Health System is currently recognized as South Florida’s only American Heart Association-certified center for hypertension care. The center has earned the American Heart Association/American Medical Association Target: BP Gold Plus Award for excellence in controlling blood pressure for two consecutive years.
