Tooth Loss and Cardiovascular Risk Burden in Myocardial Infarction Patients

Background: Oral and cardiovascular health share inflammatory and behavioral pathways. Chronic oral inflammation leading to tooth loss may reflect systemic vascular injury. The relationship between tooth loss and cardiovascular risk among patients with myocardial infarction (MI) remains underexplored. Objective: We hypothesized that in post-MI patients, the extent of tooth loss reflects cumulative systemic inflammatory exposure and correlates with major cardiovascular risk factors and coronary artery disease severity. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 200 consecutive MI patients (mean age 64 years, 65% male) underwent oral examination and cardiovascular risk assessment. Logistic and robust linear regression models were applied to identify independent predictors of tooth loss. Results: The median number of missing teeth was 20 (IQR 12-28). Age (OR 1.13/year, p < 0.001; β = 0.53, p < 0.001) and smoking (OR 3.28, p = 0.007; β = 3.13, p = 0.027) were significant independent predictors. Diabetes showed a borderline association (OR 2.20, p = 0.054), and a trend was observed with the number of affected coronary arteries (β = 1.05, p = 0.063). Conclusions: Tooth loss in MI patients is closely associated with age and smoking and may indicate cumulative inflammatory burden. As a simple, non-invasive marker, tooth loss could aid cardiovascular risk stratification and encourage interdisciplinary prevention integrating cardiology and dental care.