Poor oral hygiene may contribute to heart disease, Finland study finds

Researchers in Finland have found that bacteria commonly found in the mouth may play a significant role in heart disease, highlighting the importance of oral hygiene in preventing serious cardiovascular events.

The Tampere Sudden Death Study (TSDS) examined 121 autopsies of adults over 35 who died suddenly outside hospitals in Tampere, Finland, between 2010 and 2012. Of these deaths, 47% were due to coronary heart disease (CHD). In a parallel study, the Tampere Vascular Study (TVS) analysed arterial samples from 96 patients undergoing carotid, femoral, or aortic vascular surgeries.

Experts say the findings suggest a strong link between poor oral hygiene and cardiovascular risk. Regular dental care, including brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, may help reduce the accumulation of harmful bacteria in the mouth and potentially lower the risk of coronary artery disease.

Using advanced DNA testing, researchers detected bacterial DNA in 65.7% of coronary plaques and 57.9% of surgical plaque samples. Among these, viridans group streptococci, bacteria commonly present in the mouth, were the most frequent. These bacteria can form biofilms in artery walls, evading the immune system and contributing to plaque formation and rupture, which may lead to heart attacks.

The study also found that once bacterial biofilms break into the bloodstream, they trigger inflammation recognised by the immune system, which may worsen plaque instability.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is not just important for teeth and gums it may also be a key factor in preventing life-threatening heart disease.