Bacteria that cause gum disease may do more than damage your teeth. New preliminary research suggests they could also contribute to the buildup of calcium in the heart's aortic valve, potentially leading to calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS), a common and potentially life threatening heart valve disorder.
The findings were presented at the American Heart Association's Basic Cardiovascular Sciences Scientific Sessions 2026, held in Boston from July 13 to 16. The meeting is one of the world's largest gatherings focused on basic and translational cardiovascular research.
According to the American Heart Association, CAVS develops when the aortic valve gradually becomes thicker and more calcified, making it harder for blood to flow from the heart to the rest of the body. The condition often causes no symptoms at first. As it worsens, however, it can lead to fatigue, chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, heart failure, and in some cases premature death. For people with severe disease, valve replacement surgery is currently the standard treatment.
The new research points to a possible biological mechanism connecting chronic gum disease and infection with the development of CAVS.
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