How often do you brush your teeth? If the answer is “not often,” here’s a big reason why you should.
Researchers from the University of Bergen say that people who develop gingivitis are also more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, a fatal degenerative brain disease.
The reason? The same bacteria that causes gingivitis also produces a protein that destroys brain nerve cells, causing memory loss. Over time, the build up of this protein can lead to Alzheimer’s.
Although it’s difficult to prevent this disease, gingivitis is easy to prevent, say experts. Oftentimes it develops from poor oral hygiene habits–mainly not brushing and flossing enough.
For optimal oral hygiene, here is what the CDC recommends:
– First off, quit smoking. Tobacco products cause serious, irreversible harm to your teeth.
– Brush your teeth thoroughly twice per day. This includes scrubbing in back and forth motions across all sections of your teeth for at least two minutes.
– Follow up with floss. Floss helps remove any excess plaque or debris between teeth, reducing the risk of gingivitis.
Remember: Oral health is interlinked with our overall health, so make sure to pamper those pearly whites!
