Why Gum Disease Could Hurt Your Heart - AI Podcast

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