Why your oral health matters more than you think

When we think about taking care of our health, we often focus on things like nutrition, exercise and sleep.

But there’s one area that’s often overlooked (or seen as purely cosmetic) – oral health.

And we're not just talking about bleeding gums and bad breath.

There is a growing body of evidence that poor oral health, especially gum disease, has been linked to a range of serious conditions including heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and even some cancers.

Looking after your gums may be one of the most important, and underappreciated, ways to support your long-term health.

Here, I'll explain why!

Oral health and your heart: a well-established link

Let’s start with what we know best: heart health.

Decades of research have shown that people with gum disease (periodontitis) are at significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and stroke.

One large meta-analysis found that people with periodontitis have a 30% higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AFib) – a common and potentially dangerous heart rhythm disorder [1].

Other studies have found that gum disease is linked to increased risk of coronary artery disease, and that better oral hygiene is associated with a lower risk of heart problems over time (Review: [2]).

What’s going on? The main connection appears to be chronic inflammation.

Gum disease triggers ongoing immune activity in the mouth, which can spill into the bloodstream.

Over time, this low-grade, persistent inflammation is thought to contribute to blood vessel damage and promote the development of arterial plaques.

DNA from gum bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis has been found in atherosclerotic plaques, suggesting that oral bacteria may directly enter the bloodstream and influence heart tissue [3].

Brain health and gum disease: an emerging concern

There’s also growing concern about the connection between oral health and cognitive decline.

Some studies have found that people with chronic gum disease are more likely to develop dementia or experience faster cognitive decline.

One particularly striking finding is that P. gingivalis (a key bacterium in gum disease) has been detected in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease [4].

It appears to produce toxic enzymes called gingipains that may contribute to brain inflammation and nerve damage.

While more research is needed, this could be a key piece of the puzzle in understanding how Alzheimer’s develops.

And just like in the heart, inflammation may also be a major link here. Brain inflammation is a known driver of many neurodegenerative diseases, and gum disease may be one of the lesser-known contributors.

Beyond the heart and brain: inflammation and chronic disease

Oral health also plays a role in:

• Type 2 diabetes – There’s a well-established two-way relationship. High blood sugar worsens gum health, and gum disease makes blood sugar harder to control. Treating gum disease can improve blood glucose levels [5].

  
  

• Rheumatoid arthritis – Gum disease may trigger immune responses that contribute to joint inflammation [6].

  
  

• Kidney disease – again, inflammation [7}.

  
  

• Cancer risk – Some studies have linked poor oral health to higher rates of certain cancers, such as pancreatic and colorectal [8].

Why this matters in midlife

In your 40s, 50s and beyond, you’re more vulnerable to the effects of long-term, low-grade inflammation.

You’re also more likely to experience hormonal shifts (especially during menopause), changes in metabolism and immune function – all of which can affect your gum health.

That makes midlife an ideal time to take your oral health seriously, not just to preserve your teeth, but to support your whole body.

Five ways to protect your gums and your health

1. Brush and floss daily: It may seem basic, but it works. Twice-daily brushing and once-daily flossing help prevent plaque build-up and gum inflammation. A Waterpik (water flosser) is a helpful alternative to normal floss.

   
   

2. Get regular dental check-ups: Gum disease often goes unnoticed until it’s advanced. Routine cleanings and early treatment can make a big difference. If you're diagnosed with gum disease, regular trips to the hygienist can reverse this – I know because I had gum disease and don't anymore!

   
   

3. Eat for oral and systemic health: A diet rich in whole foods, fibre, omega-3s and antioxidants supports both your gums and your immune system. Cut back on sugar and refined carbs, which feed harmful bacteria.

   
   

4. Look for warning signs: Bleeding gums, bad breath, gum recession and tooth sensitivity can all signal problems. Don’t ignore them.

   
   

5. Support a healthy oral microbiome: Avoid overusing antiseptic mouthwashes that can wipe out good bacteria. Oral probiotics may help rebalance the microbiome.

The mouth is more than just the start of your digestive tract – it’s a gateway to your whole body.

And what happens there can have ripple effects far beyond your gums.

While brushing and flossing may seem like small habits, they could be among your strongest tools for supporting heart health, brain function and healthy ageing.

So if you’re thinking about investing in your future health, start with your toothbrush.

References

1. Leelaviwat N, Kewcharoen J, Poomprakobsri K, et al. Periodontal disease and risk of atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Arrhythm. 2023;39(6):992-996. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10692853/

2. Hopkins S, Gajagowni S, Qadeer Y, et al. More than just teeth: How oral health can affect the heart. Am Heart J Plus. 2024;43:100407. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11169959/

3. Pavlic V, Peric D, Kalezic IS, et al. Identification of Periopathogens in Atheromatous Plaques Obtained from Carotid and Coronary Arteries. Biomed Res Int. 2021;2021:9986375. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8225426/

4. Dominy SS, Lynch C, Ermini F, et al. Porphyromonas gingivalis in Alzheimer's disease brains: Evidence for disease causation and treatment with small-molecule inhibitors. Sci Adv. 2019;5(1):eaau3333. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6357742/

5. Lakschevitz F, Aboodi G, Tenenbaum H, Glogauer M. Diabetes and periodontal diseases: interplay and links. Curr Diabetes Rev. 2011;7(6):433-439. https://www.eurekaselect.com/article/20349

6. Dolcezza S, Flores-Fraile J, Lobo-Galindo AB, Montiel-Company JM, Zubizarreta-Macho Á. Relationship Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Periodontal Disease-Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med. 2024;14(1):10. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11720692/

7. Chapple ILC, Hirschfeld J, Cockwell P, Dietrich T, Sharma P. Interplay between periodontitis and chronic kidney disease. Nat Rev Nephrol. 2025;21(4):226-240. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39658571/

8. Wang X, He X, Zhong B. Oral microbiota: the overlooked catalyst in cancer initiation and progression. Front Cell Dev Biol. 2025;12:1479720. Published 2025 Jan 13. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11769975/

   
   

   Disclaimer

   
   

   The information and advice I provided here is of a general nature and should never replace individual health or medical advice provided by your doctor or other healthcare professional involved in your care.