Although not definitive, several studies have indeed shown the link between the two. According to the American Society of Periodontology, the gums and underlying bones of people with gum disease are almost twice as many as those who do not suffer from cardiovascular disease.
Some experts believe that the direct link between the two diseases has not yet been discovered, although it is thought that inflammation caused by periodontal disease may lead to two diseases.
A Columbia University study also reported that there may be a link between oral bacteria and the risk of stroke: a group of people with higher levels of certain pathogenic bacteria in the oral cavity are more likely to have arterial occlusion in the neck and can cause stroke.
Dr. Robert Chorney of Stony Point Dental Hospital said that this apparent relationship between unhealthy gums and heart disease makes regular dental care more important than ever. "Seeing a dentist is not just an oral health issue - it's a general health issue."
