Heart Health & Your Smile: The Connection You Need to Know

February is American Heart Month. It’s a time dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease and cardiovascular wellness. While we often think about diet and exercise as the keys to a healthy heart, your smile is another vital factor in heart health.

Research continues to show a strong link between oral health and heart health. In fact, people with gum disease are nearly twice as likely to suffer from heart disease.¹ This month, we’re breaking down why this connection exists and how you can protect both your smile and your heart.

1. The Role of Inflammation

The primary link between your mouth and your heart is inflammation. Periodontal (gum) disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that keeps your body in a state of ‘red alert’ (inflammation). When your gums are inflamed due to bacteria buildup, that inflammation doesn’t always stay in your mouth. It can trigger an inflammatory response throughout your entire body, including your arteries.

2. Bacteria in the Bloodstream

When you have gum disease, the tissue becomes weak and prone to bleeding. This can allow oral bacteria to enter your bloodstream. Once there, these bacteria can attach to fatty deposits in the heart’s blood vessels, potentially contributing to blood clots or the hardening of arteries.

3. Warning Signs in the Mouth

Often, your dentist can be the first line of defense. Red, swollen, or bleeding gums aren’t just a sign that you need to floss more. They are a signal from your body that your immune system is working overtime. By treating gum disease early, you are reducing the overall “inflammatory load” on your body.

4. Simple Steps for a Healthy Heart

The good news? The same habits that give you a beautiful smile also protect your heart:

Brush for two minutes, twice a day: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove plaque.
Don’t skip the floss: Flossing reaches the bacteria between teeth that contribute most to gum inflammation.
Maintain professional cleanings: Only a professional dental cleaning can remove tartar (hardened plaque) that leads to gum disease.

5. Listen to Your Body

If you have a family history of heart disease, it is especially important to stay on top of your dental check-ups. Managing your oral health is one of the most preventative, non-invasive ways to support your cardiovascular system.

Special February Offer: Heartfelt Savings

Taking care of your heart starts with your smile, and we want to help you get started. This month, save $100 on any dental treatment of $300 or more.* Whether you need a deep cleaning to jumpstart your gum health or a restorative treatment, now is the perfect time to invest in yourself.

Healthy Smile, Healthy Heart This February, take a moment to show your heart some love by prioritizing your oral care. We’re here to help you feel your best from the inside out!

¹Periodontal Disease and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease, American Heart Association Scientific Statement, 2025.

*$100 Off Dentistry not valid on previous or ongoing treatment. Valid only when total of dental treatment booked costs $300 or more. Offer not redeemable for cash. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Excludes prophylaxis cleaning, exams, and digital x-rays. Certain insurance limitations and exclusions may apply; cannot be applied to insurance co-payments or deductible. AZ, CO, and NM Delta Dental members: valid toward cosmetic dentistry only. Offer may not be available where services are covered through Medicaid, Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Tricare, and certain other government programs. Additional fees may be incurred in individual cases. Some restrictions may apply; call for details. Offer not valid for employees of Smile Brands or their dependents. Mention this offer to receive discount. Valid when appointment is booked prior to 3/31/2026 for services provided within 60 days of the booked appointment. Offer valid with this email only.