19/05/2026
A massive Danish study following more than 568,000 people found that children with severe tooth decay and gingivitis had a significantly higher risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) as adults — including heart attacks and ischemic stroke.
Researchers also found that persistently poor or worsening oral health during childhood was linked with even higher cardiovascular risk later in life.
This does NOT mean cavities directly “cause” heart disease.
But it adds to growing evidence that oral health and overall body health are deeply connected.
Possible mechanisms include chronic inflammation, oral bacteria entering the bloodstream, long-term immune system effects, and shared lifestyle and health risk factors.
This study highlights why prevention, early dental care, and healthy habits in childhood may have lifelong importance far beyond the mouth.
📄Study:
Nygaard N, D’Aiuto F, Belstrøm D, et al. Childhood oral health is associated with the incidence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in adulthood.
International Journal of Cardiology (2026)