Advanced dental caries may raise the risk of stroke and heart issuesAdvanced dental caries may increase the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular complications. Bacteria from the oral cavity can enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation in blood vessel walls and promoting thrombus formation. Risk Reduction StrategiesTimely treatment of caries and proper oral hygiene help eliminate the source of infection. Regular dental screenings allow for the detection of enamel damage before bacteria reach the pulp and enter the systemic circulation. Caries is an additional risk factor, not a direct or sole cause.