Several studies have been done on the links between bad dental hygiene and heart disease. One such study, published in April of 2008, has linked gum disease is associated with coronary heart disease. According to this study, this link exists despite regardless of other risk factors for heart disease – age, body mass index, smoking and diabetes, for example.

Plaque and gingivitis can both lead to gum disease. Plaque typically leads to gingivitis, which forms when plaque at the gum line causes irritation. It is very important to brush and floss properly to prevent these types of dental diseases

The theory which explains the link between gum disease and heart disease goes like this: bacteria from the gums travels through the blood stream to every part of the body, including blood vessels. Some lab results indicated there was oral bacteria in the atherosclerosis plaques which narrow blood vessels in different body parts, including the heart.

The bottom line is, dental hygiene effects more areas than the just the mouth. People with heart disease should keep these studies in mind so as to prevent further damage to their health.