The first key to preventing this connection is to be proactive. Good oral hygiene and regular dental examinations are the best way to protect yourself against the development of gum disease. The American Dental Association (ADA) Mouth Healthy site recommends brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush that fits your mouth comfortably, so it reaches every tooth surface adequately. It also recommends that you use an ADA-accepted toothpaste. One important thing to remember about brushing your teeth is to get to the gum line when brushing your teeth. Not just the tops, but the bottom of the teeth along your gum line.
In addition to that, get your teeth professionally cleaned once a year. We know, it may be an extra cost, but the cost to clean your teeth is far less than the cost of being in the hospital with a heart attack.