The Link Between Gum Disease & Heart Disease

Gum Disease May Lead to Heart Attacks & Strokes

Healthy Teeth and Gums Can Help Decrease Your Risk for Heart Disease and Strokes.
Although gum disease is not an independent risk factor for heart disease or stroke, there are consistent findings showing an association. Gum disease may also exacerbate existing heart conditions. Studies have reported gum disease to be a risk factor for coronary heart disease*. PDF file

Learn more. (PDF)

CIGNA Dental's Oral Health Integration Program^SM offers enhanced benefits for members with CIGNA medical and dental coverage. Learn more.

For more information on gum disease and complications for heart disease and stroke, visit these sites:

Resources
www.perio.org
www.ada.org
www.diabetes.org

*U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Oral Health in America: A Report of the Surgeon General. Rockville, MD: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes for Health, 2000.