Brush your teeth to live longer

Follow us on Twitter: @y7lifestyle

Good oral hygiene isn’t just the key to a pearly white smile and minty fresh breath. Turns out brushing your teeth and really taking care of your mouth can also prevent a number of serious illnesses and extend your lifespan.

Research from around the globe is showing that there is a significant link between gum disease and other health problems such as anaemia, strokes, high blood pressure and diabetes.

Today Tonight: Something to smile about

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, people with periodontal disease, or swollen gums, are almost twice as likely to develop heart disease. Research at the University of Alabama also showed a link between periodontal disease and higher rates of premature birth.

Perhaps the most shocking was the study done in the U.S. which showed that those with severe gum disease were twice as likely to die before the age of 64 than those with no disease.

Related: Leafy greens help breast cancer recovery

There are several theories behind the links. Some experts believe oral infections trigger the immune system producing inflammation in other parts of the body while others think the bacteria that causes gum disease gets into the bloodstream and causes new infections in major organs.

Going to the dentist is often a loathed and even feared activity, and this new information probably isn’t going to make going any easier. However, there are many ways to treat and prevent gum disease and protect yourself from the risk of developing something worse, plus it’ll give you an excuse to flash that dazzling smile for much longer.

Practical Parenting: Looking after baby teeth

Easy ways to prevent gum disease:

• Visit your dentist regularly
• Avoid tobacco products
• Limit alcohol intake
• Consume sugary food and drinks at mealtimes only
• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

Also in Health:

GALLERY: Foods that increase your brain power
Ways to stay awake without caffeine
FIBRE - what is it?