06/02/2026
During America’s 250-year history, we’ve learned a lot about how we can stay healthy and live longer. But we continue to discover more about the link between oral health and overall health.
Take heart disease, for example. Studies suggest a surprising link between gum disease and heart problems.
Gum disease can cause inflammation throughout the body, including the arteries. This inflammation triggers an immune response that can create clots. In fact, oral bacteria have been found in damaged blood vessels.
You can do a lot to help prevent oral health problems like gum disease. Brushing for two to three minutes twice a day helps remove plaque from teeth, as does flossing daily.
The best way to protect your oral health is to see your dentist at least twice a year. Routine dental exams can spot early signs of gum disease, and treatments can reduce the inflammation that may be linked to heart disease.
Learn more about how to protect your gums and heart at https://www1.deltadentalins.com/wellness/healthy-aging/articles/heart-health-oral-care.html.
Delta Dental is proud to partner with WTOP News to examine the advances in health care over America’s 250-year history. Find out more about the evolution of heart disease care at: https://wtop.com/250-years-of-america/2026/05/america-250-from-death-sentence-to-treatment-the-evolution-of-heart-disease-care/