When you have gum disease, it’s easy for some of the bacteria to escape from your mouth and get into the bloodstream, where it travels to the coronary arteries. The bacteria then sets off your body’s immune response, which sends cells to the site to try to heal the damage.

Although your body’s response is well-intentioned, the result is that this inflammatory state makes it easier for cholesterol deposits to collect on the coronary arteries, narrowing them, and also setting the stage for a blood clot. If that clot ruptures, it can cause a heart attack.

So safeguard your heart by taking good care of your teeth. Brush and floss your teeth after meals and see your dentist regularly.