Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss: for many they are just tools to have a dazzling smile. But a simple daily action like brushing your teeth could have a much more profound impact on our health. Even on our life expectancy.
This is what emerges from a study that analyzed the link between oral hygiene and the risk of chronic diseases and mortality. The results? They are surprising: poor dental health is associated with negative long-term outlook, similar to that of diagnosed periodontitis. One more reason not to neglect your toothbrush and daily routine.
The mouth, mirror of health
The mouth is not just the starting point of our digestive system. It is a real window into our overall health. Teeth and gums, in fact, can give us precious clues about any imbalances or pathologies occurring in our body. It is no coincidence that more and more studies are highlighting the link between periodontal diseases and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and even dementia.
Unfortunately, you don't have to wait for a diagnosis of periodontitis to worry. According to new research, published in The Journal of the American Dental Association (I link it to you here) even a simple perception of poor oral health can be a warning sign. Researchers analyzed data from the Women's Health Study and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), finding that people reporting dental problems had a risk of systemic comorbidities comparable to those with established periodontitis.
Tell me how much time you spend brushing your teeth and I'll tell you how long you'll live
There is more. The study also looked at participants' oral hygiene habits, finding that suboptimal dental visits or infrequent flossing were associated with increased all-cause mortality. In short, it seems that the secret of longevity also (and perhaps above all) comes from our mouths.
After all, if we think about it, it makes sense. Poor oral hygiene allows bacteria to proliferate undisturbed, causing inflammation and infections which, over time, can "migrate" to other parts of the body through the bloodstream. A bit like a domino effect, which starts with brushing your teeth but can have systemic repercussions.
The dentist saves your life
In light of these results, perhaps it is time to reevaluate our relationship with the dentist. Often seen as a "torturer" to be avoided as much as possible, in reality the dentist could be our best ally in defending our health. Not only to have a Hollywood star smile, but to prevent a whole series of problems which, in the long run, can compromise our quality and life expectancy.
And it's not just a question of aesthetics or individual well-being. As the doctor points out Yau-Hua Yu, first author of the study, understanding the link between oral health and health prospects could also have important implications at a public health level. In particular, it could help identify gaps in access to dental care and understand the impact of these inequalities on population health.
Brush your teeth to live (better and longer)
Of course, no one says it's easy to get busy with brushing and flossing. In an ever-busy world, finding time for proper oral hygiene may seem like a luxury. For many, access to quality dental care remains a mirage, with prohibitive costs and very long waiting lists. But perhaps, in light of this new evidence, it is time to review our priorities. Because investing in the health of our mouth means investing in our future.
A future made of bright smiles, but also of healthy hearts, clear minds and a body capable of accompanying us for as long as possible on the journey of life. And if the secret to longevity is hidden in a tube of toothpaste…Well, let's brush it properly.
