Bacteria from gum disease may spur calcium buildup in the heart's aortic valve, leading to a common and serious heart valve disease, according to preliminary research presented at the American Heart Association's Basic Cardiovascular Sciences Scientific Sessions 2026. The study, conducted by researchers from the State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease at Fuwai Hospital in Beijing, found that the bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis, a key driver of chronic gum disease, was present in higher levels in calcified aortic valves than in non-calcified valves.
Calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS) occurs when the aortic valve thickens and calcifies, restricting blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. Currently, no medications can prevent or slow its progression, and severe cases often require valve replacement surgery. The study identifies a potential biological pathway linking oral infection to CAVS, offering hope for new preventive strategies.
In experiments with mice, repeated exposure to live P. gingivalis led to accumulation of bacteria in aortic valves, increased calcification, and symptoms of aortic stenosis. Preventive antibiotic treatment reduced these effects. The researchers also discovered that the bacteria activated interleukin-1 beta (IL-1b), an inflammation-spurring protein. When the IL-1b gene was deleted in mice, calcification and valve symptoms were significantly reduced even in the presence of P. gingivalis.
“We were surprised by how much P. gingivalis was present in the calcified aortic valves,” said co-lead author Chenyang Li, M.D., a Ph.D. candidate in cardiology at Fuwai Hospital. “Although it was not one of the most abundant bacteria overall, it showed one of the largest differences between valves with CAVS and valves without CAVS.”
The findings underscore the importance of oral health for cardiovascular health. “The key message is simple: take good care of your oral health,” Li said. “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 because its findings have not been confirmed in people. The researchers have started a clinical study to further evaluate the link between gum disease and CAVS. Statements and conclusions of studies presented at the American Heart Association’s scientific meetings are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect the Association’s policy or position.
