Bad oral health linked to higher stroke risk: Study
A 21-year study found that people with gum disease and cavities have a much higher risk of stroke than those with healthy teeth.
Nearly 6,000 adults were tracked, and the results highlight how oral health isn't just about your smile—it could impact your brain too.
Major findings of the study
Participants with both gum disease and cavities had an 86% higher risk of stroke compared to those with healthy mouths.
Even having just gum disease raised the risk by 44%.
In numbers: only 4% of people with healthy mouths had a stroke, versus 10% for those with both issues.
Regular dental visits can help
Regular dental visits made a big difference—people who saw their dentist regularly were 81% less likely to have both gum disease and cavities.
The takeaway? Taking care of your teeth now could help protect more than just your smile later on.