Gum disease is linked to heart rhythm disorders
Many of us are guilty of forgetting to floss from time to time. But a recent study has shown that bacteria linked to gum disease can raise your risk of heart issues. Here, I’ll discuss the impacts of these findings – and help you reduce your risk.
What is the link between oral health and heart issues?
There has been a long-standing link between gum disease (periodontitis) and heart disease. It’s thought that the bacteria responsible for gum disease – P.gingivalis – increases levels of inflammation in the body. In turn, this ongoing inflammation raises your risk of both heart disease and stroke.
What does the new study show?
New evidence has shown that P.gingivalis is also linked to a higher rate of atrial fibrillation – a heart rhythm disorder. Atrial fibrillation can be serious and may increase your risk of other heart complications.
The recent evidence looked at several different studies (known as a meta-analysis). It concluded that gum disease may increase your risk of atrial fibrillation by up to 30 percent.
How does gum bacteria affect heart rhythm?
P.gingivalis can enter the bloodstream via the gums. From here, it can get inside the heart and lead to a build-up of scar tissue. Having too much of this scar tissue can affect important electrical signals. This raises your risk of atrial fibrillation.
New data also shows the bacteria may be able to skip your immune system defences and enter the heart without detection. The study suggested that the more severe the gum disease, the higher the levels of harmful bacteria found in the heart.
How can I reduce my risk of gum disease and heart issues?
Around 1 in 5 people in the UK have gum disease to some extent. So, it’s important that we take our oral health seriously. You can reduce your risk of gum disease and associated issues by:
- brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- using interdental brushes and floss to remove bacteria between your teeth
- getting regular cleanings from your dentist or hygienist
If you do have any signs of gum disease, make sure you see a dentist. Symptoms include:
- gums that bleed when you brush
- bad breath
- receding gums
- red swollen gums
Regular check-ups with your dentist will help maintain good oral health and reduce the chances of complications that could affect your general health. Good oral health doesn’t just reduce your risk of heart disease and heart rhythm issues. The same bacteria that’s linked to heart problems is also connected with an increased risk of:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- type 2 diabetes
- certain cancers
Keeping your oral health in good shape is one of the best things you can do for the health of your entire body, so think twice about skipping the floss.
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Sources Sources
- Adult oral health survey 2021. Gov.uk, accessed September 2025
- Miyauchi S, Kawada-Matsuo M, Furusho H, et al. Atrial translocation of Porphyromonas gingivalis exacerbates atrial fibrosis and atrial fibrillation. Circulation, 2025; 151(21). https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.124.071310
- Expert tips on living with atrial fibrillation. Bhf.org.uk, last updated 19 June 2024.
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