Biological pathway from mouth to heart

• According to ADA Huddles (2026), specific oral bacteria may play a critical role in the development of calcific aortic valve stenosis.

"Periodontal disease-related oral pathogenic bacteria could facilitate the buildup of calcium in the heart’s aortic valve, according to a news article from Oral Health."

"Calcific aortic valve stenosis — one of the most severe types of heart valve diseases — is characterized by calcification of the aortic valve and the restriction of blood flow throughout the body, according to a news release from the American Heart Association. The disease causes symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, fainting and chest pain as it progresses and can lead to heart failure and premature mortality. However, early aortic calcification may be asymptomatic."

(Source: ADA Huddles. (2026, July 12). Biological pathway from mouth to heart: How oral bacteria may be linked to calcific aortic valve stenosis. https://adanews.ada.org/huddles/biological-pathway-from-mouth-to-heart-how-oral-bacteria-may-be-linked-to-calcific-aortic-valve-stenosis)