Men's oral health and heart risk

Posted on March 6, 2025 in Healthy You

Heart disease is the top cause of death for American men.¹ When it comes to improving their heart health, many men turn to fitness but often overlook a key player in their overall well-being: their mouth.

Research is limited, but evidence shows a link between oral health and heart disease.² Here, we explain this connection and why more men should pay more attention to dental hygiene as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.

The oral and heart health link

Gum disease, or periodontitis, is more than just an issue for your teeth. It’s an inflammatory condition that can affect other areas of your body, including your heart. Research shows that people with gum disease are 28% more likely to have a heart attack than those who do not have gum disease.³

How does this happen? Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream through inflamed gums, triggering inflammation throughout the body. This inflammation may contribute to the hardening of arteries (atherosclerosis), increasing the risk of heart disease.²

Why men are at higher risk

Men often face unique challenges in maintaining oral health. In 2019 and 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that men were less likely than women to see a dentist.⁴ Drilling down further, men aged 27-44 are the most likely group to skip annual dental exams, according to research conducted by Delta Dental.⁵ This tendency to avoid routine dental care can lead to undetected oral health issues that can put your overall health at risk.

Additionally, men are more likely to smoke tobacco, which is a major risk factor for both gum disease and heart problems.⁶

Protecting your oral and heart health

Here are four steps men can take right now to protect both their oral and heart health:

1. Brush and floss daily: Brushing twice a day and flossing daily help remove plaque and reduce your risk of gum disease.
2. Schedule twice-yearly dental checkups: Visiting the dentist every 6 months allows for deep cleanings and early discovery of oral health problems.
3. Eat a heart-healthy diet: Limiting sugar and incorporating fruits, low-fat dairy, vegetables and whole grains can benefit both your oral and cardiovascular systems.
4. Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease and heart disease. Quitting will improve every area of your health.

Men, make your preventive dental appointment today

Caring for your oral health is not just about having a bright smile; it’s about protecting your heart and overall health. By having good daily dental hygiene habits, seeing your dentist twice a year for preventive visits and making heart-healthy lifestyle choices, men can improve their oral and cardiovascular health.

Ready to make your oral and heart health a priority? Delta Dental of Iowa is here to help. Our online Find a Provider tool can connect you to in-network dentists near you, so you can easily make an appointment and take control of your health.

REFERENCES:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Men and heart disease
2. National Library of Medicine
3. Institute for Oral Health
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Dental care utilization
5. Corridor Business Journal
6. National Institute on Drug Abuse