{"id":14148,"date":"2022-04-26T17:41:00","date_gmt":"2022-04-26T17:41:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.westgatedentalcare.net\/blog\/?p=14148"},"modified":"2026-01-08T19:39:01","modified_gmt":"2026-01-08T19:39:01","slug":"can-gum-diseae-cause-high-blood-pressure","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.westgatedentalcare.net\/blog\/2022\/04\/26\/can-gum-diseae-cause-high-blood-pressure\/","title":{"rendered":"True or False: Can Gum Disease Cause High Blood Pressure?"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\"person<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Growing up, we were constantly told how brushing and flossing were essential for a healthy smile. While that\u2019s certainly true, those practices can also have a positive impact on your general health. If you fail to take proper care of your mouth, you could develop issues like gum disease. Well, did you know that periodontitis can increase your chances of having high blood pressure? Read on to learn more about this connection and how you can keep your gums healthy for better heart health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Is High Blood Pressure?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The blood your heart pumps throughout your body travels through the arteries. Blood pressure is used to measure the pressure your blood puts on the walls of the arteries. Hypertension (or high blood pressure) occurs when you consistently measure high throughout the day. It\u2019s a dangerous condition because it often comes with no symptoms, even when it reaches dangerously high levels. The only way to know your blood pressure levels is through regular readings. If left untreated, it can increase your risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Connection Between Gum Disease and High Blood Pressure?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Typically, gum disease<\/a> happens when bacteria build up around the base of the teeth and begins to wear down the gum tissue. Recent studies show that people with periodontitis (gum disease) are almost twice as likely to have high blood pressure than those with healthy gums. In many cases, it\u2019s because of the inflammation that occurs with gum disease, which triggers inflammation in the heart as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep an eye out for the following symptoms as they could indicate unhealthy gums:<\/p>\n\n\n\n