Childhood Oral Health Linked to Adult Heart Disease Risk
A growing body of research suggests a connection between oral health in childhood and the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) later in life. A recent study published in the International Journal of Cardiology reinforces this idea, indicating that protecting young smiles could also help safeguard lifelong heart health.1
The Link Between Oral Health and Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death worldwide. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), which includes ischemic heart disease (IHD), myocardial infarction (MI), and ischemic stroke (IS), accounts for a significant portion of premature mortality due to CVD.1 Identifying risk factors early in life is crucial for developing effective preventative strategies.
Oral disease, encompassing inflammation from conditions like periodontitis and gingivitis, as well as dental caries (cavities), is widespread in both children and adults. Oral inflammation can contribute to the translocation of oral bacteria throughout the body and trigger low-grade systemic inflammation. This systemic inflammation is hypothesized to play a role in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and other adverse health outcomes.1
Danish Cohort Study Reveals Associations
Researchers conducted a large nationwide Danish cohort study, analyzing data from over 568,000 individuals aged 30 and older. They classified participants based on their childhood dental health, utilizing data from the National Child Odontology Registry, assessing the presence and severity of dental caries and gingivitis.1
The study found that children with poor oral health were more likely to develop CVD as adults. The risk was particularly elevated among those with persistently poor or declining oral health.1 While this observational study doesn’t prove causation, it highlights a significant association.
Sex-Specific Risks
The study revealed differences in risk based on sex. Among males, severe dental caries in childhood was associated with a 32% higher risk of ASCVD, while females with severe caries had a 45% higher risk. Severe gingivitis was linked to a 21% and 31% increased risk of ASCVD in males and females, respectively.1
Worsening dental caries also showed a sex-specific impact. Boys with worsening moderate to severe caries had a 26% higher incidence of ASCVD as adults, compared to a 45% higher risk for girls.1
Gingivitis and ASCVD Risk
While periodontal inflammation is often linked to gingivitis, the study found a pattern suggesting that gingivitis, frequently coexisting with severe dental caries, may also play an indirect role in the development of ASCVD.1
Socioeconomic Factors and Oral Health
Children from disadvantaged backgrounds often have limited access to dental care, increasing their risk of oral disease. This study suggests that this disparity could contribute to a higher risk of adult ASCVD within this population.1 However, it’s important to note that the study was conducted in Denmark, where healthcare access differs from many other countries, and the findings may not be universally applicable.
Study Limitations
The researchers acknowledge several limitations. The study lacked data on smoking and diet, both of which influence oral and cardiovascular health. Residual confounding is possible despite adjusting for educational status. The sample’s relatively young average age may have biased estimates toward early-onset ASCVD.1
Implications for Public Health
Despite these limitations, the study’s strengths – its large nationwide cohort, long follow-up period, and accurate diagnostic data – support the conclusions. The findings suggest that investing in childhood oral health may have far-reaching benefits beyond the oral cavity, potentially reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease.1
Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore the underlying mechanisms linking childhood oral health to adult ASCVD risk. However, the current evidence suggests that prioritizing oral health early in life could be a valuable component of a comprehensive strategy for preventing cardiovascular disease.
1 Nygaard, N., D’Aiuto, F., Eriksen, A. K., et al. (2026). Childhood oral health is associated with the incidence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in adulthood. International Journal of Cardiology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijcard.2025.134151