AAP Highlights Connection Between Periodontal Disease and Cardiovascular Health
In recognition of American Heart Month—recognized each year in February—the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has been highlighting a powerful and often overlooked connection between periodontal and cardiovascular health. Mounting evidence shows that gum disease is not just a dental issue; it may be a warning sign for serious heart conditions. Several studies published in the AAP’s Journal of Periodontology (JOP) and a recent scientific statement from the American Heart Association (AHA) reveal that periodontal disease is independently associated with a higher risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. Chronic inflammation and harmful bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream, potentially fueling plaque buildup in the arteries, underscoring why periodontists are urging closer collaboration with cardiologists, especially for patients at elevated risk. “It is well known tha...
