No proof that bad gums actually cause heart disease or strokes. also claims that dental treatment may prevent heart attack or strokes are unwarranted.?

Contribution: The underlying issue with many pathological changes in the body is inflammation. When the gums are inflamed, chemicals are released into the blood stream, there are changes to the lining of the coronary arterial walls, and cholesterol deposits begin. While gum disease is not the only, or even primary cause, it is a considerable risk factor that should be eliminated. Gum health is important.

Occur together: As opposed to gum disease causing heart disease. They are both inflammatory diseased that can occur at the same time. Having severe periodontal disease could be an indicator that you are susceptable to inflammatory diseases. All these disease states need to be checked and controlled.

Moderate Association: There is a moderate association between periodontal disease and heart disease. There is a plethora of information on this subject via your favorite search engine. It can't hurt to have healthy gums and teeth.

Still possible: There many studies that suggest that oral health, and gum disease in particular, are related to serious conditions like heart disease. This april, the aha came out with a report disputing that. I believe experts questioned some flaws in the media report, and most experts still believe there is a link. Whether it is true or not still remains to be seen. Good gum health is still important.