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PDS Health Highlights the Connection Between Oral and Heart Health

In the observance of February as American Heart Month, PDS Health is taking significant steps to highlight the often-overlooked relationship between oral health and heart health. With heart disease being the leading cause of mortality in the United States, understanding this connection is vital. This year, PDS Health is focusing on the necessity of dental visits as a critical measure in preventing heart-related ailments.

Research indicates a substantial correlation between periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, and an increased likelihood of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), instances of gum disease may elevate risks for conditions including atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and even chronic kidney disease. Notably, December 2025 saw the release of a crucial scientific statement by the AHA shedding light on the link between periodontal disease and atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, which encompass problems like angina stemming from plaque accumulation in the arteries. Given that periodontal disease is a prevalent yet frequently undiagnosed chronic condition affecting adults, timely detection during routine dental examinations is of utmost importance for overall health preservation.

Dr. Carolyn Ghazal, Executive Vice President at PDS Health, stated, "Regular dental visits are essential not only for maintaining oral hygiene but also for optimizing heart health. These check-ups could be the sole contact with healthcare providers that a patient may have throughout the year. Oral health practitioners are uniquely positioned to recognize risk factors associated with heart diseases and can collaborate with primary care physicians to offer comprehensive care."

One innovative approach currently being endorsed by the AHA and the American Dental Association is the implementation of blood pressure screenings in dental practices. These routines screenings are instrumental in detecting hypertension, a known precursor to cardiovascular conditions. PDS Health practices have already witnessed the immediate, life-saving outcomes of such screenings; patients diagnosed with severe hypertension during dental appointments received critical medical interventions promptly.

Beyond the immediate implications of screenings, PDS Health is committed to promoting awareness regarding what they term the Mouth-Body Connection®, aiming to educate both clinicians and their patients on how oral health impacts overall health. As part of their educational initiative, PDS Health dental offices are distributing the latest edition of Generations of Smiles, a digital magazine tailored for patient education. The February issue centers around the intertwining relationship between oral and heart health, the necessity of regular blood pressure assessments, nutritional advisories based on updated dietary guidelines, and more.

To gain further insights into PDS Health's integrated care approach, visit pdshealth.com.

About PDS Health

PDS Health continues the mission originally set forth by Pacific Dental Services® since 1994, striving to redefine healthcare through the convergence of dental and medical services. By placing emphasis on the interplay between oral and overall health, PDS Health endeavors to nurture healthier and happier patients while establishing new standards in the healthcare sector. As a leader in integrated healthcare support, PDS Health offers diverse services benefiting dental practices, dental specialties, and medical professionals, enhancing operational efficiency and care delivery throughout the USA. To explore more about PDS Health and its vision, visit pdshealth.com.

The Mouth-Body Connection® is a registered trademark of PDS Health.