What a scary thought that is. Previously it was assumed that not brushing your teeth might make you unpopular with other people if you suffer from bad breath, but scientists have now discovered if you don’t brush your teeth, you are at risk from a heart attack.
There is a common bacteria, which has been found to be responsible for causing tooth plaque and gum disease. It can enter the body via bleeding gums. Once it is absorbed in the bloodstream Streptococcus bacteria deposits a clot-forming protein, which has been known to lead to heart attacks and strokes.
The British Dental Association welcome this new evidence that oral hygiene is so important. Their advice is to avoid fatty and sugary foods, and brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, and visit your dentist regularly.
British Heart Foundation are more cautious. They suggest that a healthy diet, exercise, and not smoking are the best way of avoiding heart attacks and strokes. Whoever is right, one thing is for sure, we all need to take care of ourselves in the best way we can to prolong a healthy life
