14/09/2026
Brushing Your Teeth Twice a Day for Two Minutes Might Do More Than Protect Your Smile.
A study presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions found that adults who brushed their teeth less than twice a day and for less than two minutes had a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular events compared with those who brushed at least twice daily for two minutes.
Researchers analyzed 682 adults and found that poorer toothbrushing habits were associated with an approximately threefold higher risk of heart attack, heart failure, or stroke after accounting for multiple health factors.
Scientists believe oral health may influence cardiovascular health through chronic inflammation. Poor oral hygiene can contribute to gum inflammation, which has been linked to processes involved in cardiovascular disease.
While this observational study cannot prove cause and effect, the findings add to growing evidence that oral health may play an important role in overall cardiovascular health.
📚 Matsui S, et al. Poor tooth brushing behavior is associated with high risk of cardiovascular events: A prospective observational study. International Journal of Cardiology. 2022;350:111–117.
