A 20-year study published in Neurology Open Access found that adults with both periodontal disease and dental caries had an 86% higher risk of ischemic stroke compared to those with healthy mouths. The study tracked 5,986 adults with an average age of 63, none of whom had experienced a stroke at baseline. Among participants with healthy mouths, 4% had a stroke over the follow-up period. That figure rose to 7% for those with gum disease alone and 10% for those with both conditions. The researchers also found a 36% higher risk of major cardiovascular events, including heart attacks, in the combined oral disease group. Regular dental attendance made a measurable difference: participants who visited the dentist routinely were 81% less likely to have both conditions and showed 29% lower odds of gum disease alone. The study's authors note that oral health was assessed only once at the start, so changes over time were not captured. Still, the findings point to a practical implication for dental professionals: patients presenting with periodontal disease and active caries may carry elevated cardiovascular risk, and early treatment could matter beyond the mouth. Lead author Souvik Sen of the University of South Carolina states that oral health should be considered part of stroke prevention efforts.