Though many may not realize it—the health of the heart is intimately connected to the health of the mouth.

Could your toothbrush help maintain a steady heartbeat? Research in the Journal of the American Heart Association indicates a connection between dental health and heart rhythm stability.

Patients who underwent catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AFib), characterized by rapid and irregular heartbeats, might be surprised to find that the next step involves dental care. Researchers in Japan found that addressing gum disease shortly after the procedure significantly lowers the risk of the heart condition’s recurrence. Those treated for gum disease within three months post-ablation had a much lower rate of atrial fibrillation recurrences.

Brushing Toward a Healthier Heart

The two-year study, which involved adults undergoing AFib treatment, aimed to investigate the link between oral health and atrial fibrillation recurrence.