Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common oral health concerns, and it is the leading cause of tooth loss for adults over the age of 35. While many people know that gum disease can dramatically impact oral health, they aren’t always aware that periodontal disease is also linked to a number of whole body health concerns like heart disease. February is Heart Disease Awareness Month and Gum Disease Awareness Month, so there’s no time like the present to explore the ways that poor oral health can increase risk for cardiovascular disease.