Story at-a-glance
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is typically linked to cardiovascular risk factors like hypertension and aging, but evidence suggests chronic oral infections also play a direct role in its development
- New research links Porphyromonas gingivalis, the key bacterium in gum disease, to heart scarring and arrhythmias. Findings show it travels to the heart and interferes with electrical signaling
- In animal models, P. gingivalis exposure increased AFib risk, while human heart tissue confirmed higher bacterial load and damage in patients with severe gum disease
- A 14-year study of 1.25 million people found chronic gum disease increased AFib risk by 4%, while recovery lowered risk to nearly the same level as gum-healthy individuals
- To improve your gum health, make sure to brush and floss daily, try oil pulling, eat a whole-food diet, manage your stress levels, and get regular cleanings from a biological dentist trained in systemic oral care
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