The bacteria that cause gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis can travel through the bloodstream, leading to inflammation and damage in your blood vessels.

For diabetics, the connection is even more serious — high blood sugar can damage your teeth, and in turn, dental issues can make blood sugar harder to control.

It’s a vicious cycle that many people don’t realize.

The result? Cavities can literally lead to heart disease and even death — especially in those with preexisting health conditions. But despite how crucial dental health is, teeth are often treated as “luxury bones.”

Dental care, including cleanings and maintenance, is rarely fully covered by insurance. It’s a particularly prominent problem in the US, leaving many to deal with the consequences of untreated problems.

And if a tooth infection spreads, it can quickly become a life-threatening issue by traveling to the brain or bloodstream.