Brushing your teeth could save your life

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Heart problems have often been linked to gum disease, but the link wasn’t clear. New research from the University of Bristol in the UK, has found a self-defense mechanism of microbes in the mouth is the cause.

Here’s what happens: the bacteria from bleeding gums enters the blood stream and deploy a protein that forces the platelets to bind together, creating clots.

Poor dental care will most likely lead to bleeding gums.

Study leader Professor Howard Jenkinson, said: “when the platelets clump together they completely encase the bacteria. This provides a protective cover not only from the immune system, but also from antibiotics that might be used to treat infection. Unfortunately, as well as helping out the bacteria, platelet clumping can cause small blood clots, growths on the heart valves, or inflammation of blood vessels that can block the blood supply to the heart and brain.

The bottom line: your dentist was right, daily brushing and flossing is vital to your overall health.