Beiruting News

Older adults who get thorough dental cleanings may have a lower heart attack risk than people who follow a less-stringent oral health regimen, according to a 2012 study.

The same study also found a link between regular visits to the dentist -- and getting professional "scaling" (or tooth scraping) -- and a decreased stroke risk.

While this is a bit more obvious than the other benefits, regular brushing can also help to prevent gum disease. Brushing your teeth two times a day to ward off gum disease.

A 2011 study showed that oral infections and diseases can raise the risk of respiratory diseases, including pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 

Pneumonia and COPD are caused when bacteria get into the lower respiratory tract from the upper part of the throat. If you keep your mouth clean (thereby lowering your risk of oral infection), that could help to keep bacteria from getting into your lower respiratory tract.

Believe it or not, having a good dental hygiene routine can be healthy for pregnancy. A 2007 study showed that periodontal disease is linked with pre-term low birth weight.

Brushing your teeth also serves as an indicator to your brain that mealtime's over. Brushing your teeth after a meal can help ward off mindless eating and consuming more calories than you need.

Plus, it's worthwhile to mention that after brushing your teeth, food doesn't quite taste the same (you can thank chemicals in toothpaste for that taste-bud effect).

A 2010 study showed that gum disease may increase the risk for Alzheimer's disease. Again, brushing and keeping up a clean kisser can help ward off oral infections and possibly lessen the risk for Alzheimer's disease.

While having fresh breath in the bedroom is reason enough to keep up the brushing, there's more: A clean mouth may help to prevent erectile dysfunction.

Chronic gum disease is slightly more common in men with erectile dysfunction of a moderate to severe level, compared with men who don't have erectile dysfunction.