Brushing your teeth is often considered a routine part of daily hygiene, but emerging research suggests its benefits extend far beyond a bright smile. A growing body of evidence links good oral health to a reduced risk of serious systemic conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular issues.
At the annual American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) conference held last week in Arizona, researchers highlighted the mouth as a “gateway to overall health.” The discussion centered on the increasingly recognized interconnectedness between the oral cavity and the rest of the body, a shift from the historical view of the mouth as a separate entity.
Panelists at the conference emphasized that the oral cavity can influence the health of various organs, including the joints, brain, and gut. Alpdogan Kantarci, a professor at the University of Minnesota’s School of Dentistry, stated that maintaining good dental health may be associated with a reduced risk of more than 50 systemic conditions. He further noted that individuals with mild or moderate diseases who prioritize brushing, dental care, and professional cleanings often exhibit better cognitive responses.
The connection stems, in part, from conditions like periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that becomes more prevalent with age. This condition causes ongoing inflammation and progressive damage to the bone and tissues supporting the teeth, triggering immune responses that can contribute to systemic inflammation and increase the risk of rheumatoid arthritis and dementia.
Oral Health and Longevity
Research published in 2024 in The Lancet, Health Longevity, by researchers at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, concluded that oral health should be considered an “integral component of the overall healthcare system and an important factor in accessing aging.” The authors posited that oral health conditions could be potential risk factors for physical frailty or functional disability, underscoring the importance of oral health for overall well-being and longevity.
Further supporting this link, a 2023 study published in the journal Neurology found that individuals with good dental hygiene tended to have better memory function. Conversely, gum disease and tooth loss were associated with reduced gray matter in the brain and a decline in mental health.
The Role of Daily Brushing
Dr. Michael J. Wei, DDS, a cosmetic and restorative dentist in New York City, confirms the numerous benefits of frequent tooth brushing. “From a preventive health perspective, brushing three times a day helps control the bacterial biofilm that fuels gum disease and chronic inflammation,” he explained. “Inflammation in the mouth does not remain isolated—it can influence cardiovascular health, metabolic function, and immune balance.”
By disrupting plaque throughout the day, the body’s inflammatory triggers are reduced. Dr. Wei believes that consistently lowering this inflammatory burden over time may contribute to healthier aging and a reduced risk of systemic disease. He emphasizes that small, disciplined daily habits often have the greatest long-term impact.
While maintaining proper oral health isn’t a “guaranteed safeguard” against dementia, Dr. Wei considers it a “meaningful way to reduce modifiable risk factors.” He recommends consistent brushing, flossing, routine dental cleanings, and addressing issues like teeth grinding or jaw tension to lower inflammation and prevent long-term damage.
Technique Matters
However, experts caution against brushing too much or too aggressively. “Brushing too aggressively or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can lead to enamel wear, gum recession, and tooth sensitivity,” Dr. Wei warned. “The balance comes down to frequency paired with proper technique, using a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush, and gentle, controlled movements.”
Dr. Richard Lipari, a cosmetic and general dentist at Lipari & Mangiameli Dentistry in Chappaqua, New York, agrees that brushing twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure is sufficient for proper hygiene and oral health. He notes that brushing a third time per day is acceptable, provided it’s done gently and correctly, “Think of it as massaging the teeth and gums, not scrubbing them.”
Dr. Luis R. Dominicis Jr., DDS, AVP of dental services at AltaMed Health Services in California, recommends scheduling routine dental checkups and discussing the proper brushing and flossing techniques with a dental professional. “Ask which toothbrush and toothpaste are best for you and whether there are signs of gum recession or enamel wear,” he advised. “Following your recommended treatment plan can help you maintain a healthy mouth and support your overall well-being.”
