There’s mounting evidence that brushing, flossing, regular dental
checkups and a healthy diet play a role in good cardiovascular
health.

Chronic periodontal disease — which is caused by a number of
oral bacteria — appears to set off an inflammatory process that
exacerbates and contributes to the buildup of cholesterol-rich
plaque on artery walls.

The presence of a chronic infection in the mouth is very similar
to a chronic infection anywhere else in the body, in that it puts
stress on our body’s response system. The body responds to this
stress by sending certain biochemical elements through the
bloodstream, which create the plaque.

People with chronic infections — and gum disease is one of the
major chronic infections — are at increased risk later in life
for atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and coronary
heart disease.

Some tips to keep bacteria from setting up house in your gums:

• Get an oral exam. A dentist can detect gum disease, gauge its
  severity, and order treatment such as bacterial removal via
  scaling and root-planing.
• Brush and floss regularly. The more frequently food is kept
  away from teeth, the better, since regular cleaning robs oral
  bacteria of the nutrients they crave.
• Reduce snacking. Every snack delivers a fresh meal to germs
  that are hard at work destroying teeth and gums. If snacking is
  unavoidable, at least avoid refined carbohydrates and other
  processed foods. Fresh, whole vegetables and fruits are the best
  snacks for oral health.

Taking care of your teeth is a necessary part of good health
and quality of life — and may have a protective effect on your
cardiovascular system.
Source: Beck, JD et al, Systemic Effects of Periodontitis:
Epidemiology of Periodontal Disease and Cardiovascular Disease, J
Periodontol. 2005 Nov;76(11-s):2089-2100