Brushing your teeth: small changes may reduce health risks

Researchers and dental experts reported links between oral health and a range of systemic conditions, and dentists in the article emphasised regular check-ups and careful brushing technique.

Experts report growing attention to oral health after presentations at a scientific conference linked mouth care to broader medical outcomes. Professor Alpdogan Kantarci told the American Association for the Advancement of Science annual meeting that better oral health and brushing up to three times daily may be associated with lower risk of many systemic conditions. The article describes research into possible connections between oral bacteria and conditions such as some gut diseases and cognitive changes. Two practising dentists quoted in the piece stressed the importance of brushing technique, fluoride toothpaste use and routine dental reviews. Key points: - Professor Alpdogan Kantarci is reported as saying that maintaining healthy teeth may be associated with a reduced risk of more than 50 systemic conditions and that brushing three times a day, particularly after sticky or sugary foods, was advised. - Dr Abdul Dalghous and Dr Rhona Eskander are quoted emphasising brushing at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, the value of quality brushing before bed, and the role of regular dental check-ups; Dr Eskander noted a lunchtime brush can help some people. - The article notes common brushing issues highlighted by dentists, including brushing too hard, missing the gumline, not cleaning between teeth, neglecting back teeth, and rinsing away fluoride immediately after brushing. Summary: The article presents oral health as connected to wider physical health, with researchers and clinicians reporting possible links to a range of conditions and cognitive outcomes. Dental experts in the piece emphasised routine care and correct brushing technique as part of that picture. Undetermined at this time.