Good oral hygiene not only reduces the number of appointments you have to make with your dentist, it also helps you avoid more serious incidents.

According to an American study, having your teeth scaled at least twice a year reduces the risk of heart attack by 24%, and stroke by 13%.

Dental hygiene

Researchers suggest that our cardiovascular problems are directly linked to our dental health. They followed hundreds of people over a three-year period to assess the links between the amount of bacteria present in our mouths and the condition of their arteries. If we don't brush our teeth properly, bacteria proliferate and can cause gingivitis. The resulting bleeding causes bacteria to enter the bloodstream, increasing the formation of blood clots. Blood clots can stick to artery walls, blocking the blood supply to the heart and brain - conditions that are conducive to stroke. While dental hygiene is not the only way to combat these dangers, it is nonetheless an element not to be neglected.

The study involved more than 50,000 people over an average period of seven years. The existence of a link between dental condition and heart health has been known for a long time; until a few years ago, future open-heart surgeons had to have their teeth pulled, but this is the first time it has been assessed in this way.

Regular cleaning

Regular teeth cleaning can reduce the growth of gingival bacteria, which can generate an inflammatory state that can promote the onset of cardiovascular disease. "These results are not surprising as there are numerous studies showing an association between inflammation and heart disease," said Dr Lawrence Phillips, cardiologist at Langone Medical Center (USA). "Good dental hygiene is recommended for all patients," he added.

Remember to brush your teeth regularly, and you'll be better off and perhaps live longer, thanks to good dental hygiene and meticulous tooth brushing.

INTERMED is the distributor of PHILLIPS, the world's N°1 ultrasonic electric toothbrush. Their toothbrush features SONICARE technology to reach interdental spaces and the gum line more effectively. It has a 3-week autonomy, 2 modes: "Clean" lasting 2 min. and "Clean and white" lasting 2 min. 30 s. It also features a timer that vibrates every 30s to indicate the need to change the area to be cleaned, making it easier to respect the brushing time recommended by dentists.

PHILLIPS SONICARE toothbrushes are available from the health boutique at 55 avenue Marechal Foch.