December 16, 2025

Gum Disease and Cavities Strongly Linked to Higher Stroke Risk

8 minutes

People with both gum disease and cavities have nearly double the risk of suffering an ischemic stroke compared to those with healthy teeth and gums
Chronic oral inflammation allows harmful bacteria and toxins to enter your bloodstream, damaging arteries and increasing blood clot formation that blocks blood flow to your brain
MRI brain scans show that gum disease alone causes silent brain injuries known as white matter lesions, which are early signs of stroke and cognitive decline
Regular cleanings, good oral hygiene, and biological dental care dramatically reduce stroke risk by preventing infection, lowering inflammation, and protecting the health of blood vessels
Healing your mouth through better nutrition, natural oral care, and toxin-free dentistry strengthens your gums, restores circulation, and supports long-term brain and heart health

...more

By Dr. Mercola

4.6

14871,487 ratings

December 16, 2025

8 minutes

People with both gum disease and cavities have nearly double the risk of suffering an ischemic stroke compared to those with healthy teeth and gums
Chronic oral inflammation allows harmful bacteria and toxins to enter your bloodstream, damaging arteries and increasing blood clot formation that blocks blood flow to your brain
MRI brain scans show that gum disease alone causes silent brain injuries known as white matter lesions, which are early signs of stroke and cognitive decline
Regular cleanings, good oral hygiene, and biological dental care dramatically reduce stroke risk by preventing infection, lowering inflammation, and protecting the health of blood vessels
Healing your mouth through better nutrition, natural oral care, and toxin-free dentistry strengthens your gums, restores circulation, and supports long-term brain and heart health

...more