5 Ways to Lower your Risk of 
Posted 8/19/26
Your mouth is part of your body, and caring for it is an important part of caring for your overall health. Gum disease does more than cause bleeding gums or bad breath: periodontitis can damage the tissues and bone that support the teeth and is a leading cause of tooth loss.
Oral health and whole-body health are connected
Researchers have found associations between periodontal disease and health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and dementia. These links are important, but an association does not necessarily mean that gum disease directly causes another condition. Oral and systemic diseases may also share risk factors such as smoking, diet, obesity, and high blood pressure.
The relationship with diabetes is especially important. People with diabetes have a greater chance of developing gum disease, and gum disease may make blood sugar more difficult to control. Let your dentist know if you have diabetes or if your health or medications have changed.
Gum disease is common—and often manageable
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 4 in 10 U.S. adults age 30 or older have some level of periodontitis. The CDC also reports that periodontitis is more common among men than women and becomes more common with age.
Watch for gums that are red, swollen, tender, receding, or prone to bleeding. Persistent bad breath, loose or sensitive teeth, and pain while chewing can also be warning signs. Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can often be reversed with good home care and professional cleanings. Periodontitis cannot be reversed, but professional treatment can slow and manage it.
Small daily habits make a meaningful difference
A recent observational study of 10,609 U.S. adults found that people who reported flossing had a lower rate of death from all causes during the study period, including among participants with periodontitis. This finding is encouraging, but it does not prove that flossing itself extends life. The researchers described the result as hypothesis-generating and noted that other health and lifestyle factors may help explain the association.
What we do know is that consistent oral hygiene helps remove plaque, prevent gingivitis, and protect the teeth and gums. A strong daily routine includes:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Cleaning between the teeth every day with floss or another interdental cleaner recommended by your dental team.
- Avoiding tobacco and limiting sugary foods and drinks.
- Keeping regular dental checkups and professional cleanings.
- Contacting your dentist when you notice bleeding, swelling, pain, loose teeth, or another change in your mouth.
Good oral care is not a substitute for medical care, but it is a practical part of a healthier life. If it has been a while since your last visit—or if you are concerned about your gums—we are here to help you build a plan that fits your needs.
Sources and further reading
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: About Periodontal (Gum) Disease
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Healthy Mouth, Healthy Body
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Diabetes & Oral Health
- Journal of Dentistry: Periodontitis, flossing behavior, and mortality
