# Gum disease linked to hidden heart valve risk New research finds a connection between gum disease and heart valve calcification. - **Source:** [Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily](https://brifing.si/source/0eef8637-6c5b-4e79-8f5b-6c9c6b36cf16) - **Published:** 2026-07-13 - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/b02760f5-c966-4943-9775-330eb3f41bd2 ## Link between gum disease and heart health New research suggests that bacteria causing gum disease may lead to calcium buildup in the heart's aortic valve, potentially causing calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS), a serious health condition. ## Research details The study was presented at the American Heart Association's Basic Cardiovascular Sciences Scientific Sessions 2026 in Boston. CAVS occurs when the aortic valve thickens and calcifies, obstructing blood flow. ## Bacterial mechanism Researchers investigated the role of Porphyromonas gingivalis, a bacterium linked to periodontal disease, in CAVS development. This bacterium was significantly present in heart valve tissue and may contribute to calcification. ## Mouse experiments Experiments on mice exposed to P. gingivalis showed calcium buildup and stenosis symptoms in the aortic valve. Antibiotic treatment reduced these effects. ## Inflammation mechanism Researchers found that P. gingivalis activates the inflammation-promoting protein IL-1β. Genetically deleting this protein significantly reduced valve calcification and disease symptoms. ## Importance and future These findings highlight the importance of gum health for heart health. Researchers have launched clinical studies to confirm the link between periodontal disease and CAVS in humans. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/07/260713000751.htm — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._