What is the first thing you do when you wake up? You brush your teeth, right? Well, brushing teeth is not a morning ritual, the way many believe it to be. One should always brush teeth twice a day: once after waking up and once after dinner and before going to bed.
Recently, Harvard doctor Saurabh Sethi took to Instagram to share the health benefits of brushing teeth twice a dayand most importantly before going to bed. “Research suggests that skipping it might do more than just risk cavities – it could also affect your heart health. Let me know if you’re keeping up with your oral hygiene before bed!,” he has captioned an informative video shared by him.
Research has shown a strong link between gum disease (periodontitis) and cardiovascular problems like heart attacks and strokes which is contrary to what most people assume that oral health is just about teeth and gums. A study published in July 2024 has shed light on how periodontitis has “overall health consequences, specifically pertaining to CVD and associated diagnoses.” A 2021 review study has concluded that “the prevalence of heart diseases is more common in individuals with periodontitis.” “Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are in charge of many deaths worldwide including myocardial infarction (MI), hypertension (HTN), coronary atherosclerosis (CAS), infective endocarditis (IE), heart failure (HF), arterial fibrillation (AF), and peripheral artery disease (PAD). Besides, periodontitis is the sixth prevalent disease among humans and it seems that there are common risk factors between these diseases which are creating communication between prevalence and treatment,” the researchers have said.
When you have gum disease, bacteria from your mouth can enter the bloodstream through inflamed gums. These bacteria can trigger inflammation in blood vessels, making it easier for cholesterol to build up and form plaques, leading to blockages. This increases the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.
Poor oral hygiene can also lead to a condition called infective endocarditis, where bacteria from the mouth infect the inner lining of the heart. This is especially dangerous for people with pre-existing heart conditions, as it can cause severe complications.
For those who already have heart disease, chronic gum infections can put additional strain on the heart. The persistent inflammation makes it harder for the cardiovascular system to function properly, potentially leading to worsening symptoms.
Maintaining good oral hygiene—brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular dental checkups—can help prevent gum disease and reduce the risk of heart-related complications. A healthy mouth leads to a healthier heart, so don’t ignore those bleeding gums or bad breath!
