Brush your teeth regularly, and the rest of your body will thank you.

According to research presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions meeting in Chicago, brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes drastically reduces your chance of having heart disease. Though the study was not intended to prove absolute cause and effect, it showed that those who maintain good dental hygiene habits tend to lower their risk of experiencing a heart attack, heart failure or stroke.

Gum disease can put the body in a perpetual state of inflammation, a predictor of cardiovascular disease. Taking care of your gums and teeth relieves your body of stress and limits the spread of bacteria in the bloodstream. The mouth is a good indicator and reference to the rest of your overall health. Maintain a regular brushing schedule, and it’s possible to see improvements elsewhere. While brushing and flossing your teeth can’t completely eliminate your chances of developing heart problems, it does lower your risk and provide additional health benefits.

Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day is a low-cost, low-risk step to a more health-conscious life. What have you got to lose? If you have questions about your dental health or need to schedule a cleaning, email office@progressivedentalNY.com or give us a call at 607-754-2273.