New preliminary research presented at the American Heart Association's Basic Cardiovascular Sciences Scientific Sessions 2026 in Boston has uncovered a potential link between gum disease bacteria and the development of calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS), a common and serious heart valve condition. The study, conducted by researchers at Fuwai Hospital and the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, focused on the bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), a key pathogen in chronic periodontitis.
Calcific aortic valve stenosis occurs when the aortic valve thickens and calcifies, restricting blood flow from the heart. Currently, no medications can prevent or slow its progression, and severe cases require valve replacement surgery. The study's findings suggest that treating gum disease and associated inflammation might help prevent CAVS. Researchers measured bacterial levels in human cardiac valve tissue removed during valve replacement surgery and found that P. gingivalis was significantly more abundant in valves from patients with CAVS compared to those with other valve diseases.
In mouse experiments, repeated exposure to live P. gingivalis led to bacterial accumulation in aortic valves, increased calcification, and symptoms of aortic stenosis. Preventive antibiotic treatment reduced these effects. The bacteria activated interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), an inflammation-spurring protein. When researchers genetically deleted IL-1β in mice, calcification and valve symptoms were significantly reduced even in the presence of P. gingivalis.
Co-lead author Chenyang Li, M.D., a Ph.D. candidate at Fuwai Hospital, emphasized the importance of oral health: "The key message is simple: take good care of your oral health. Good oral hygiene and treatment of periodontal disease are important for overall health and may also have benefits for cardiovascular health." Eduardo Sanchez, M.D., M.P.H., FAHA, chief medical officer for prevention for the American Heart Association, commented, "This study adds to the growing evidence that oral health and heart health are closely connected." The American Heart Association's Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts™ initiative provides dental care teams with professional education highlighting this connection.
The study has limitations as it has not been confirmed in humans. The researchers have started a clinical study to further evaluate the link between gum disease and CAVS. The findings are considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.
