Brushing Your Teeth

While brushing your teeth is important to good oral hygiene, this daily routine may also help protect your heart. In a recent study of about 680 people, those who recorded brushing their teeth less frequently and for a shorter time than the recommended two minutes twice daily had three times the risk of a first cardiac event than the people who met the guideline for brushing. Another study found a link between gum disease and high blood pressure. Brushing, flossing and regular dental checkups may all play a role in reducing future risk of cardiovascular events.