A preliminary study presented at the American Heart Association’s Basic Cardiovascular Sciences Scientific Sessions 2026 suggests that bacteria from gum disease may play a role in the development of calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS), a common and serious heart valve condition. The research, conducted on mouse and human cardiac tissue, identified a potential biological pathway linking chronic oral infection to the narrowing of the aortic valve.
According to the American Heart Association, CAVS occurs when the aortic valve thickens and calcifies, restricting blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. While early stages may be asymptomatic, progression can lead to fatigue, chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, heart failure, and sometimes premature death. Currently, no medications can prevent or slow the disease, and severe cases require valve replacement surgery.
The study focused on Porphyromonas gingivalis, a bacterium known to cause gum inflammation and tissue destruction. Previous research has linked this bacterium to systemic inflammation and cardiovascular disease, including coronary artery disease. Researchers measured bacterial levels in human cardiac valve tissue removed during valve replacement surgery and found that P. gingivalis was notably more abundant in calcified aortic 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 bacterium activated interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), an inflammation-spurring protein, in mouse valve cells. When researchers genetically deleted IL-1β in mice, calcification and valve symptoms were significantly reduced despite the presence of P. gingivalis.
“The key message is simple: take good care of your oral health,” said co-lead author Chenyang Li, M.D., a Ph.D. candidate at Fuwai Hospital in Beijing. “Our findings suggest that periodontal health could be an important piece of the puzzle” for preventing CAVS.
Eduardo Sanchez, M.D., M.P.H., FAHA, chief medical officer for prevention for the American Heart Association, noted, “This study adds to the growing evidence that oral health and heart health are closely connected.” He emphasized the role of dental professionals in early detection of periodontal disease, which can lead to better health outcomes.
The study has limitations, as the findings have not been confirmed in humans. The researchers have initiated a clinical study to further evaluate the link. The American Heart Association’s Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts™ initiative provides education and resources for dental care teams to address the connection between oral and cardiovascular health.
