New Discoveries: How Oral Bacteria Trigger Heart Attacks and Change Perspectives on Cardiovascular Diseases
Recent studies conducted by researchers at the University of Tampere in Finland have shed light on the mysterious role of bacteria residing in the oral cavity in the development of cardiovascular diseases.
In a comprehensive analysis, scientists examined arterial plaques from over 200 patients suffering from ischemic heart disease.
They discovered that these plaques contain high concentrations of oral bacteria, confirmed through genetic DNA analysis.
This breakthrough opens new horizons in understanding the causes of heart attacks and highlights the importance of oral hygiene in preventing cardiovascular conditions.
For decades, medical professionals suspected a link between mouth bacteria and heart diseases, but until now, there was a lack of conclusive evidence.
The latest research demonstrates that bacteria, particularly streptococci from the mouth, infiltrate atherosclerotic plaques and contribute to their formation, increasing the risk of rupture and subsequent heart attack.
Samples of coronary plaques from patients who died suddenly or underwent surgical removal revealed biofilms consisting of multiple bacterial species, most notably greenish streptococci, present in over 42% of cases.
These bacteria develop a protective layer—biofilm—that resides deep within the plaque, away from immune defenses.
Under stress or inflammation, this layer can rupture, triggering a heart attack.
The findings suggest that bacteria from the oral cavity could play a significant role in the atherosclerotic process, especially considering that these bacterial biofilms often evade immune response, promoting plaque instability.
While further research is necessary to establish a definitive causative link, existing evidence underscores the importance of maintaining good oral health to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.