Brush up on good health

Cleaning teeth could cut risk of 50 ailments, even dementia

- BY HANNA GEISSLER Health Editor in Phoenix

BRITS may be at risk of developing more than 50 health conditions because they have “Third World” teeth, according to American experts.

The academics say there is mounting evidence that brushing teeth properly could help stave off illnesses including dementia, Parkinson's and rheumatoid arthritis.

Bacteria in the mouth is thought to spread inflammation and infection throughout the body, potentially affecting the brain, gut and joints.

Dentistry professor Alpdogan Kantarci, of the University of Minnesota, said: “We think maintaining your teeth in healthy may be associated with a reduced risk of more than 50 systemic conditions.”

He warned that sugary and ultra-processed diets were fuelling tooth decay and gum disease.