New research underscores link between poor childhood health and cardiovascular disease

February is National Children’s Dental Health month, and a new nationwide study by the International Journal of Cardiology is the first of its kind to link children’s oral health to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) incidence.

The study collected data from over half a million participants over the span of 20+ years, effectively concluding that poor oral health exhibited in childhood directly corresponds to an increased risk of ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction (MI) and ischemic stroke (IS) in adulthood. 

The inflammatory nature of periodontal disease may contribute to chronic low-grade systemic inflammation, which is known to contribute to cardiovascular disease. Periodontal treatment has been shown in other studies to reduce systemic inflammatory markers and blood pressure. 

Study results 

Researchers examined the severity of childhood oral disease and oral health trajectories over time. They found that overwhelmingly, children with an increased presence of dental caries and gingivitis were more likely to develop cardiovascular disease because “the inflammatory response in periodontal disease contribute[s] to an increase in chronic low-grade inflammation."^`

They also observed a higher likelihood of developing ASCVD incidence among female children. In males, MI was the most frequent ASCVD-diagnosis (41.8 %), while IS predominated in females (54.3 %). Scientists hypothesized this may be due tothe “protective effect of oestrogen” in females, but additional data is required to draw more conclusive results. Researchers stated that “it is also possible that the observed sex differences in our study are due to underlying baseline hazards in males and females.”¹

The authors also emphasize that even small increases in risk could have meaningful public health implications given the high baseline incidence of ASCVD. Pediatric dental care is insufficient in underserved communities and among disadvantaged populations, so poor pediatric oral health may widen existing health disparities—both oral and cardiovascular—if childhood health programs are not treated with levity.¹

Why this data is pertinent 

While the connection between poor adult oral health and cardiovascular disorders is already well-established, early oral health interventions can also reduce long-term cardiovascular risk in children. 

It’s also important to make dental experiences stress-free for pediatric patients. When treating children during routine visits or oral procedures, small gestures such as ensuring the patient is comfortable, explaining what’s going on in their mouth step-by-step, commending positive behavior, and reducing anxiety can make all the difference. Positive experiences and a healthy rapport with their provider can encourage children to develop regular flossing and brushing habits.²

Cardiology researchers noted that “Investing in childhood oral health may have downstream benefits far beyond the oral cavity.” Thus, protecting children’s health through preventative strategies, such as thorough oral routines, is paramount to keeping their risk for ASCVD low as they age.¹

References 

1. Nygaard N, D'Aiuto F, Eriksen AK, et al. Childhood oral health is associated with the incidence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Int J Cardiol. 2026;448:134151. doi:10.1016/j.ijcard.2025
2. Stoenelova A. Managing pediatric patients: 5 tips that work for dental hygienists. DentistryIQ. February 20, 2024. https://www.dentistryiq.com/dental-hygiene/clinical-hygiene/article/14305492/managing-pediatric-patients-5-tips-that-work-for-dental-hygienists