Dr. Andrew Kay's Takeaway: The evidence continues to grow showing the links between gum disease and systemic disease, especially cardiovascular disease. It is important to minimize inflammation in the mouth and help reduce the risk of heart attacks and stroke. The medical/cardiology community has caught on. Get checked and get treated, not just to help your oral health, but to keep your entire body (and mind) healthy. Yes, there are also links between periodontal disease and mental health.