Dental Disease as a Clinical Marker for Coronary Artery Disease Severity: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence and Mechanisms

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Coronary atherosclerosis remains a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. Chronic systemic inflammation has emerged as a key factor in atherosclerosis development. Tooth loss—often the final consequence of periodontitis—has been proposed as a potential clinical marker of systemic inflammation and cardiovascular risk. Objective: This narrative review synthesizes the available literature on the relationship between tooth loss and coronary artery disease (CAD) severity, exploring biological mechanisms, key epidemiological findings, and clinical implications. Materials and Methods: We reviewed observational studies, meta-analyses, and clinical reports assessing whether tooth loss is predictive of CAD severity and adverse outcomes. Results: A consistent association is reported between tooth loss and increased coronary involvement. Proposed mechanisms include periodontal inflammation, dysbiosis, systemic inflammatory responses, and translocation of oral bacteria. However, confounders such as smoking, diabetes, and socioeconomic status complicate causality. Conclusions: Tooth loss may serve as a simple, non-invasive clinical indicator of systemic inflammation and CAD severity. Incorporating oral health evaluation into cardiovascular risk assessment could enhance early detection and prevention strategies. Further longitudinal and interventional studies are required to establish causality and inform clinical guidelines.