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Can Gum Disease Affect Your Heart? The Link Between Periodontitis, Artery Health, and Dental Care in Kingston

Key Takeaways

• A new clinical study found that Intensive periodontal treatment (IPT) can improve the health of your blood vessels, specifically helping reduce carotid artery thickening.
• Treating gum disease promptly may lower your risk of cardiovascular issues like stroke or heart attack.
• Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups aren’t just about your smile – they support your overall vascular health.

What the Study Found

A new clinical study published in the European Heart Journal (19 August 2025) examined how treating periodontitis affects the progression of carotid intima‑media thickness (cIMT), a key marker of early artery disease. Researchers observed that intensive periodontal treatment (a thorough deep‑cleaning and targeted gum therapy) helped slow or even reverse cIMT progression.

Why It Matters

• Periodontitis, or advanced gum disease, isn’t just a dental issue – it’s linked to inflammation that may harm your arteries.
• Carotid artery thickening can indicate future cardiovascular events. By addressing gum disease, we may help protect your heart and brain health.

The following graphic has more information about the study:

At Thames Street Dental, we’re committed to caring for both your oral and overall wellbeing. This study underscores how dental treatment can be part of your broader preventative health strategy.

What We Can Do at Thames Street Dental

1. Keep up with regular periodontal check‑ups – we’ll assess your gum health and recommend timely interventions.
2. Early intervention is key – If signs of gum disease start to appear, prompt intensive treatment from your dentist can make a real difference.
3. Maintain excellent daily oral hygiene – brushing twice, flossing daily, and using an interdental brush will support gum and artery health.

Want to learn more? Explore our blog posts:

• Periodontitis vs Gingivitis: What’s The Difference?
• Do your gums bleed when you brush your teeth?
• Dental Hygiene (Scale and Polish): How Often Should You Have It Done?
• Why Gum Health Matters for Your Heart
• Preventing Periodontal Disease: Tips & Routine Care
• The Thames Street Dental Oral Health Checklist

Understanding the Connection: Dentistry and Cardiovascular Health

This research highlights a vital link: your mouth and your gums can signal what’s happening in your blood vessels. At Thames Street Dental, we’re proud to integrate dental care with whole‑body health. From thorough examinations to personalised treatment plans, we help you protect more than just your smile.

Looking for tailored advice or a periodontal assessment? Visit our Periodontal Treatments page for details and booking options.