Heart Disease and Dental Health Linked, AHA Warns

New scientific statement highlights the importance of good oral hygiene for heart health.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The American Heart Association (AHA) has released a new scientific statement emphasizing the connection between poor dental health and an increased risk of heart disease. The statement focuses on periodontal disease, a chronic inflammatory condition that affects over 40% of American adults. Experts explain that the bacteria and inflammation from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, ultimately leading to an elevated risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues.

Why it matters

This new guidance from the AHA underscores the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene as part of an overall heart-healthy lifestyle. While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, the link between dental and heart health is well-established, and addressing gum disease could be an important step in reducing one's risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

The details

According to the AHA statement, periodontal disease begins with gingivitis, where plaque buildup leads to gum inflammation, and can progress to periodontitis, where the gums start to pull away from the teeth and create pockets that trap bacteria. This chronic inflammation can then enter the bloodstream and contribute to the development of arterial plaque, potentially leading to heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiac events. While a direct cause-and-effect relationship has not been definitively proven, experts say maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits can help mitigate the risks.

  • The AHA scientific statement was published in the journal Circulation in 2026.

The players

American Heart Association (AHA)

A nonprofit organization focused on cardiovascular health and research.

Andrew H. Tran, M.D., M.P.H.

A cardiologist and director of the preventive cardiology program at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio.

Yu-Ming Ni, M.D.

A cardiologist and lipidologist at MemorialCare Heart and Vascular Institute at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California.

Hsun-Liang Chan, D.D.S.

A professor and chair of the Division of Periodontology at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry.

Stephanie Saucier, M.D.

A cardiologist at Hartford HealthCare.

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What they’re saying

“Your mouth and your heart are connected. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups aren't just about a healthy smile—they're an important part of protecting your heart.”

— Andrew H. Tran, M.D., M.P.H., Cardiologist and director of the preventive cardiology program at Nationwide Children's Hospital (AHA statement)

“We've known for quite some time that periodontal disease is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It's just not a relationship that we commonly discuss.”

— Yu-Ming Ni, M.D., Cardiologist and lipidologist (Prevention.com)

“Managing gum disease through direct oral hygiene treatments, like flossing, can reduce inflammation in the whole body and change the microorganisms that camp out locally in the mouth, the oral microbiome.”

— Justin Zachariah, M.D., M.P.H., Statement co-author and director of research, Pediatric Cardiology at Texas Children's Hospital Heart Center (AHA statement)

What’s next

The AHA recommends that individuals without a diagnosis of gum disease see a dentist regularly, at least twice a year, to help lower their risk of developing cavities and periodontal disease. Those with a prior diagnosis of gum disease should visit the dentist three to four times per year for more frequent cleanings and monitoring.

The takeaway

This new guidance from the American Heart Association underscores the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene as part of an overall heart-healthy lifestyle. While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, addressing gum disease and inflammation could be an important step in reducing one's risk of developing cardiovascular disease.