Heart disease and oral health fact sheet

There is a link between gum disease and heart disease. Bacteria in the mouth can block blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attacks. Some medicines can also increase the risk of having gum disease.

Last updated: 01 September 2025
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​Signs of gum disease:

  • red, swollen or bleeding gums
  • loose teeth
  • bad breath.

What can I do to prevent gum disease?

  • Brush your teeth two times a day.
  • Use a toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
  • Clean between your teeth using floss or an interdental brush.
  • If you wear dentures, clean them daily, take them out at night and leave dry.
  • Visit your dentist at least once per year or as advised by your health care provider.

Did you know?

Some heart medicines can increase the risk of gum disease by causing:

  • dry mouth
  • fungal infections
  • thickening of gums.

What are my healthy choices?

  • Choose water as your everyday drink.
  • Each day aim to eat two serves of fruit, and add vegetables to two meals.
  • Choose healthy fat foods - nuts, nut spreads, avocado, hummus, cooking oils and margarines eg olive, canola, sunflower.
  • Limit foods and drinks high in added sugars, saturated fats and salt.
  • If you choose to drink alcohol, limit intake.
  • Do not smoke or vape - if you do, try to quit. Call Quitline 137848 for support.
  • Adults should be physically active most days, preferably everyday.

Everyone’s needs are different so please see your doctor/dietitian for advice.

What do I need to discuss with my health care provider?

  • Tell them about any teeth and gum problems you might have.
  • Inform them of any treatments a dentist has planned for you.

What do I need to discuss with my dentist?

  • Inform them about your heart health and how you manage the condition.
  • Tell them about any other health conditions.
  • Tell them about any medicines you are taking.​

Speak to both your health care provider and dentist for information about the effects of your medicines.

Dental services in NSW

NSW Public Dental Services provide free dental care to adults who have a Medicare card and either hold or are listed as a dependent on a valid Australian Government concession card.

Public Dental Services are free for children under 18 years old with a Medicare card. Parents or guardians must sign a Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) Bulk Billing Patient Consent Form. If a child is not eligible for CDBS or has already used their benefit, care is still provided at no cost.

To access NSW Public Dental Services call 1800 679 336.

If you need an Interpreter Service call 13 14 50.

Some Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations​​ (ACCHO) provide dental care for their community. Each ACCHO may have different eligibility criteria and appointment processes for their dental programs.

To find a private dentist​, visit the Australian Dental Association website​.

Contact page owner: Centre for Oral Health Strategy