We know that gum disease is the main culprit for tooth loss in American adults. We also know that the disease is linked to many overall health issues, such as heart attack, stroke, diabetes complications, low-weight births, and osteoporosis. Studies continue to reveal links between gum disease and whole health because, and you know this too, the mouth is a porthole to the entire body. A new study from Boston University recently revealed that men under the age of 60 who have poor oral hygiene face increased risk for heart disease. This particular report is more specific than its predecessors.
The study factored in other risks, like alcohol use, smoking, cholesterol, and BMI. Furthermore, the subjects of the study had undergone 3-year (at least) medical and dental exams for 35 years prior. Still, men younger than 60 who had poor oral hygiene showed increased risk for heart attack.
SOURCE: http://www.dentalplans.com/articles/31997/