Poor Dental Health Linked to Significantly Higher Stroke Risk, New Studies Show
NEW YORK – Maintaining good oral hygiene might potentially be crucial for brain health, according to two studies published in Neurology in 2025. Research indicates a strong correlation between poor dental health – specifically periodontitis and tooth decay – and an increased risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease.
The first study examined the relationship between periodontal disease and white matter hyperintensity volume,a marker of cerebral small vessel disease. A second study, analyzing data from nearly 6,000 participants over an average of 21 years, directly assessed the impact of periodontitis and tooth decay on stroke risk. participants were categorized by oral health: good, periodontitis alone, and periodontitis plus tooth decay.
Results revealed a stark increase in stroke frequency correlating with declining dental health. Stroke rates were 4.1% among those with good dental health, rising to 6.9% in individuals with periodontitis, and reaching 10% in those with both periodontitis and tooth decay. This association remained important even after accounting for established risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, and smoking.
While the studies are observational and cannot definitively prove causation, researchers suggest a link between oral health and overall cardiovascular well-being. Individuals who prioritize dental hygiene are also more likely to adopt other healthy lifestyle habits.However, the growing body of evidence suggests dental health’s influence extends far beyond the mouth, possibly contributing to healthier blood vessels and a reduced risk of stroke. Regular dental care,including daily brushing and routine check-ups,may offer benefits for both oral and cardiovascular health.
Sources:
Meyer et al.: Periodontal Disease Independently Associated With White Matter Hyperintensity Volume – A Measure of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease. Neurology 2025.doi: 10.1212/WN9.0000000000000037
Wood et al.: Combined influence of Dental Caries and Periodontal Disease on ischemic Stroke Risk. Neurology 2025.doi: 10.1212/WN9.0000000000000036
