The bacteria that infect the gums and cause gingivitis and periodontitis also travel to blood vessels elsewhere in the body where they cause blood vessel inflammation and damage; tiny blood clots, heart attack and stroke may follow, said Harvard Health.
The health site continued: “Rather than bacteria causing the problem, it’s the body’s immune response – inflammation – that sets off a cascade of vascular damage throughout the body, including the heart and brain.
“Whether the link is direct, indirect or coincidence, a healthy mouth and a regimen to keep it that way (including not smoking and getting regular dental care) can help you keep your teeth.
“That’s reason enough to do what you can to make oral health a priority.”