Brushing your teeth more frequently could lead to greater longevity

Cleaning your teeth can do more than just brighten your smile, it may also help you live longer.

Increasing research suggests this is good Oral hygiene It is associated with a lower risk of developing serious conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease and rheumatoid arthritis.

At the annual conference of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), held in Arizona last week, a group of researchers explored this evidence, describing the mouth as a “gateway to public health.”

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During the event titled “The Mouth as a Gateway to Public Health,” panelists from medical schools across the United States discussed how the mouth was once viewed as a separate entity from the rest of the body.

“However, researchers now know that the oral cavity and body are deeply interconnected,” the summary of the presentation on the AAAS website states.

Recent research suggests that improving oral hygiene can reduce the risk of developing serious health conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease. (Istock)

The panelists noted that previous research suggests that the oral cavity can do this Affect health And other organs, including joints, brain and intestines, according to Euro News.

“We now believe that keeping your teeth healthy may be associated with a lower risk of developing more than 50 systemic conditions,” panel member Albdogan Kantarci, a professor at the University of Minnesota School of Dental Medicine, reportedly said during the event.

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“Research now shows that for people with mild or moderate disease, those who brush and take care of their teeth or visit the dentist and have advanced cleanings show greater Better cognitive responsesHe added.

Experts say gum disease can cause persistent inflammation that can increase the risk of cognitive problems. (Istock)

The presenters discussed how to treat gingivitis, a severe form of gingivitis Gum disease Which worsens with age, and affects the bones and tissues supporting the teeth.

This condition leads to “persistent inflammation and progressive damage,” leading to immune responses and increased risk of disease Rheumatoid arthritis And dementia.

Oral health and longevity

Research conducted by Tufts University School of Dentistry in Boston and published in The Lancet, entitled Health Longevity, in 2024, concluded that oral health should be considered “an integral component of the overall health care system and an important factor in achieving old age.”

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“Oral health conditions could be potential risk factors for physical impairment or functional disability,” the researchers stated. “The importance of oral health for General well-being Longevity must be emphasized.”

Additional research published in the journal Neuroscience in 2023 found that people with good dental hygiene had better memory, while gum disease and tooth loss were associated with less gray matter in the brain and decreased brain function. Mental health.

“From a preventive health perspective, brushing three times a day helps control bacterial biofilms that feed gum disease and chronic infections,” a dentist said. (Istock)

Daily cleaning role

Dr. Michael J. Wei, a cosmetic and restorative dentist in New York City, confirms that there are many benefits to brushing your teeth frequently.

“From a preventive health perspective, brushing three times a day helps control bacterial biofilms that fuel gum disease and chronic inflammation,” he told Fox News Digital. “Inflammation in the mouth does not remain isolated – it can affect Cardiovascular healthMetabolic function and immune homeostasis.”

When plaque is disrupted throughout the day, there are fewer inflammatory triggers in the body, Wei said.

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“Over time, reducing this burden may contribute to healthier aging and reduced risk of systemic disease,” he said. “Small and disciplined Daily habits “It often has the biggest impact in the long run.”

Although maintaining proper oral health is not a “guaranteed guarantee” against dementia, Wei sees it as “a useful way to reduce modifiable risk factors.”

“Protecting the health of your gums is part of supporting overall brain health,” one dentist told Fox News Digital. (Istock)

He added that routine brushing and flossing, flossing teeth, and treating problems such as grinding or jaw tension “all contribute to reducing inflammation and preventing long-term damage.”

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Experts warn that brushing teeth too much or too vigorously can lead to various complications.

“Brushing teeth too vigorously or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can lead to enamel erosion, gum recession, and tooth sensitivity,” Wei warned. “The balance comes down to frequency combined with proper technique, using a soft-bristled toothbrush or electric toothbrush, and gentle, controlled movements.”

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Dr. Richard Lipari, a cosmetic and general dentist at Lipari and Mangiamelli Dental Center in Chappaqua, New York, agreed that brushing twice daily for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure is sufficient for proper hygiene and to keep teeth clean. Oral health.

“Oral care should be viewed as an essential component of preventive medicine,” the dentist said. (Istock)

“Brushing your teeth a third time a day is fine as long as it’s done gently and correctly,” he told Fox News Digital. “Think of it as massaging your teeth and gums, not rubbing them.”

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Dr. Luis R. Dominices Jr., DDS, AVP of dental services at AltaMed Health Services in California, recommends scheduling a routine dental exam and asking about the correct way to brush and floss.

“Ask which toothbrush and toothpaste is best for you and whether there are signs of receding gums or enamel erosion,” he advised in an interview with Fox News Digital. “Following the recommended treatment plan can help you maintain… Healthy mouth And support your overall well-being.”