In addition to maintaining your winning smile, brushing your teeth just may save your life, as well. Previously, it was reported on Healthy Theory that doctors found a link between the number of teeth a person has and the health of their hearts. Along these lines, researchers have found that irregular brushing can increase a person’s chances of having a heart attack, in some instances by as much as 70%.

A new study published in the British Medical Journal followed over 11,000 adults and discovered that when they failed to brush their teeth twice a day, their risk for heart disease went up. While more research is needed to confirm the direct link between heart and oral health, the evidence in favor of healthy teeth is a compelling one.

Earlier studies have found that poor dental hygiene resulted in inflammation in the mouth that can travel to other parts of the body, including the heart. Inflammation is a known risk factor for heart disease. The current study is the first to actually study the relationship between tooth-brushing and cardiovascular health.

To arrive at their conclusions, researchers analyzed the data of the study population that was taking part in a broader public health analysis. Lifestyle habits such as smoking, level of exercise, and oral health routines were factored into their assessments. Also considered was the frequency with which the subjects visited the dentist and how often they brushed their teeth, i.e., less than every day, once a day, and twice a day.

According to the data, 62% of the group went to see a dentist every six months, and 71% said that they brushed their teeth twice a day. After adjusting for such issues as obesity, smoking, demographics, and family history of heart disease, it was determined that people who brushed their teeth less regularly increase their risk for heart disease by 70%. People in the poor oral hygiene camp also tested positive for fibrinogen and C-reactive protein, both of which are markers for chronic inflammation.

The authors indicate that more studies are needed to clarify whether the relationship between dental hygiene and heart disease is a causal one or if poor oral health is simply a risk marker. Whatever be the case, the findings support the efforts to encourage maintaining our teeth. This is a particular challenge in light of the fact that in the hectic pace of our daily lives, it is not unheard of for us to take our teeth for granted. The challenge is all the greater because of the prevalence of processed sweetened foods in our diet, which in an of themselves can contribute to obesity and heart disease.

Heart disease is the leading killer of men and women in this country and the world over. It affects men and women equally. In many instances, a person can reduce their risks by taking certain lifestyle precautions, including maintaining a healthy weight, getting plenty of exercise, reducing stress, and eating a healthy diet. Now, it appears, that brushing your teeth should be added to that list.

If you have questions or concerns, talk to you doctor and dentist. For more information about the link between oral health and heart disease, visit the websites of the American Academy of Periodontology and the American Heart Association.