Inflammation caused by things like gingivitis can cause inflammation throughout the body, says Dr. Marcus St. John, Cardiovascular Specialist with Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute.

The process by plaque or cholesterol builds up in the artery is fueled by inflammation. “If you have very inflamed gums for instance your rate of atherosclerosis could be increased,” he says.

Smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, physical inactivity, diabetes, obesity, high saturated fat diet and family history are some of the coronary artery disease risk factors.