Heart attacks linked to oral bacteria by study

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A University of Buffalo (UB) study has shown that while two oral pathogens are linked to increased risk of a heart attack, the total number of bacteria in the mouth is a more important factor for heart health. 

 

The study, which was presented at the International Association of Dental Research (IADR) General Session in Miami, analysed the dental plaque of 386 heart-attack sufferers and 840 control subjects. Periodontal bacteria and total number of bacteria were analysed. 

 

Heart-attack sufferers had more bacteria than the control subjects. Although only two species – Tannerella Forsynthesis and Preventella Intermedia – have a statistically significant association with increased risk of heart attack, the total number of different periodontal bacteria also increases the risks. 

 

UB is also where the original link between bacteria that cause periodontal (gum) disease and the development of heart disease was discovered. 

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