Healthy Teeth = Healthy Heart

Brush and floss
It takes only six minutes a day to keep gums in the pink…and help prevent heart disease. People with periodontal disease face nearly twice the risk of heart attack as their healthy-gummed brethren. But you can zap that risk by brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day and flossing for two minutes each night.
Doctors aren’t sure why people with gum disease get more heart disease. One theory is that bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream through inflamed gums and cause small blood clots that contribute to clogged arteries. Another theory is that diseases such as gingivitis, later-stage periodontitis, and even cavities cause the release of an inflammatory chemical that plays a role in the buildup of fatty deposits in the heart.
Either way, diligent brushing and flossing can help. The secret is in the technique, says Sally Cram, D.D.S., a periodontist in Washington, D.C., and spokesperson for the American Dental Association: after brushing your teeth with a soft toothbrush, hold the brush against your gums at a 45-degree angle and lightly massage with short, circular strokes. For the best protection, go the full two minutes; most people brush for fewer than 30 seconds. Mouthwash isn’t necessary, but if you like to use it, look for products that contain menthol, thymol, and eucalyptol.