If we ask someone the importance of brushing their teeth, they may say that it keeps their teeth and gums healthy, prevents cavities, and gives fresh breath.

However, brushing your teeth has some surprising health benefits that will extend your lifespan. In this article, we will explore the relationship between brushing your teeth and longevity.

Oral Health and General Health

Many studies have shown a strong association between oral health and general health. Poor oral hygiene and gum diseases can increase the risk of systemic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory problems.

Scientists believe that the inflammation in the gums caused by bacteria can spread to other parts of the body, causing chronic inflammation.

The inflammation can lead to the formation of plaques in the arteries, making them narrow and hardened, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Moreover, respiratory problems such as pneumonia are more common in people with poor oral health because the bacteria in the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs.

Brushing Your Teeth and Reducing Inflammation

Brushing your teeth not only removes the food particles and bacteria from your mouth but also reduces inflammation in the gums. The bacteria in the mouth can irritate and inflame the gums, causing bleeding, swelling, and pain.

If left untreated, the infection can spread to the bone and cause tooth loss.

However, regular brushing and flossing can help remove the bacteria from the mouth, preventing further inflammation. Moreover, using fluoride toothpaste strengthens the teeth and prevents cavities.

Oral Health and Brain Health

Recent studies have also shown a link between oral health and brain health. Scientists have discovered that people with periodontal disease have a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

Moreover, the bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and reach the brain, causing inflammation and damage to the nerve cells in the brain.

Therefore, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene to reduce the risk of cognitive decline in later years.

Brushing and flossing regularly, visiting the dentist for routine checkups, and eating a healthy diet will help keep your teeth and brain healthy.

Oral Cancer and Brushing Teeth

Oral cancer is another health issue associated with poor oral hygiene. Smoking, alcohol consumption, and poor oral hygiene are risk factors for oral cancer.

Moreover, people who have a family history of cancer are also at higher risk of developing oral cancer.

However, regular brushing and flossing can reduce the risk of oral cancer. Brushing your teeth removes the bacteria that can cause inflammation and irritation in the mouth, reducing the risk of cell damage that can lead to cancer.

Moreover, visiting the dentist regularly can help diagnose oral cancer in the early stages, making it easier to treat.

The Importance of Brushing Your Teeth Twice a Day

Brushing your teeth twice a day is essential to maintain good oral hygiene. Most people brush their teeth in the morning and before bedtime.

However, some people may brush their teeth only once a day, which is not enough to remove all the bacteria and food particles from the mouth.

When we eat something, the bacteria in the mouth use the sugars and carbohydrates to produce acid, which can erode the enamel of the teeth.

Therefore, it is crucial to brush your teeth after meals or snacks to remove the food residues and protect the teeth from decay.

Brush Your Teeth Properly

Brushing your teeth properly is as important as brushing twice a day. Many people brush their teeth for only a few seconds, which is not enough to clean all the surfaces and corners of the teeth.

Moreover, using the wrong technique or a hard-bristled brush can damage the gums and teeth.

The proper way to brush your teeth is to use a soft-bristled brush and gentle circular motions to clean all the surfaces of the teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces.

Moreover, you should brush your tongue to remove the bacteria that cause bad breath.

Flossing and Mouthwash

Flossing and using mouthwash are also essential for good oral hygiene. Flossing removes the food particles and bacteria from the spaces between the teeth, which cannot be reached by a toothbrush.

Mouthwash helps kill the bacteria that can cause bad breath and prevent gum diseases.

Therefore, it is recommended to floss at least once a day and use mouthwash to refresh your mouth. However, it is important to note that mouthwash is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. It only helps maintain good oral hygiene.

The Bottom Line

Brushing your teeth is not only important for maintaining good oral health but also for protecting your overall health and longevity.

Regular brushing and flossing can reduce the risk of gum diseases, heart disease, stroke, cognitive decline, and oral cancer. Therefore, it is essential to make brushing your teeth twice a day a part of your daily routine.